Computer will not start

Dzerzhinsky

Honorable
Jul 21, 2012
9
0
10,510
Hey everyone,

Recently I've come across a very puzzling issue, and frankly, I'm at a loss. Three days ago I took apart my computer and cleaned it thoroughly. I used it all day for the rest of the day, but the following day, it wouldn't start. Nothing. No signs of life at all. I've tried everything I could think of; tested the PSU, checked all the plugs, made sure everything everything on the mobo was plugged in correctly, yet it still wouldn't turn on. Checked everything about 4 times... I haven't done any really recent updates to the computer, and it's only about 3-4 years old. Really need some help on this...

Thanks,

Philip
 
Solution


If those answers don't resolve it, try plugging the computer into a different outlet and also check the connecting powercable to the wall.

If this is truly dead, considering a new PSU is at least $99, and a brand new up to date computer (your at the point you should replace yours anyway) is only $300 at Walmart (even a laptop!), you might want to consider that be the better path, remove the hard drive and use a USB to SATA (I hope?) connector so you can access your data (not programs) files (my documents, my videos, etc.)


If those answers don't resolve it, try plugging the computer into a different outlet and also check the connecting powercable to the wall.

If this is truly dead, considering a new PSU is at least $99, and a brand new up to date computer (your at the point you should replace yours anyway) is only $300 at Walmart (even a laptop!), you might want to consider that be the better path, remove the hard drive and use a USB to SATA (I hope?) connector so you can access your data (not programs) files (my documents, my videos, etc.)
 
Solution
Like I said, I've already checked the power supply, and I know for a fact it is fine, and I checked all the outlets and switches. At this point, I'm not looking for a simple answer like buying a new computer. Mine isn't particularly low end (I have invested in it) and I'd rather replace one part than downgrade to a 300 dollar laptop. Has anyone else had a similar experience like this?
 
We checked the power settings on the PSU. We checked the connections. We checked the outlet (make sure it didn't get GFCI tripped or was somehow fried). We eliminated the very basic first parts that make the system power on. That means the system is dead.

You could try to replace the PSU, but at that point your really wasting money when considering the low cost point of systems today. You could have invested $2000 3-4 years ago, the system today is still worthless because it is so old and unsupported (can't run SSDs, can't find replacement memory, etc.). The costs of newer systems are cheaper then the parts (like a automobile, buying a new one is much cheaper then buying all the parts seperately to assemble together).

By the by it isn't a 'simple answer'. Standard Consumer PCs are replaced ever 5 years max (reason they are warranted for only 24 months), businesses schedule at 3 years. I wasn't suggesting a laptop, there is plenty of nice i5 desktops for around $300, but you could

Good luck in whatever your choice is.
 
Some motherboards have a volt check check. Do you have a Multimeter? Check your MOBO manual for instructions on checking its voltages and currents.

My MSI G45 Z87s volt checks are on the top right corner when looking at it if you want a reference of what to look for. I don't know how old MOBOs are but volt checking is of the oldest tech so I don't see why not.
 


At the very least you would see the power light turn on and the fans whirl, he is saying (like a lightbulb that died) he flips the switch he gets nothing at all. No lights, no fans whirling, nothing. So even removing the RAM, CPU, etc. wouldn't resolve anything if no power is going across the board (PSU died, power plug isn't pushed in all the way, outlet in the wall fried, breaker for power outlet tripped, etc.).