Urgent; computer sparked and popped now it doesn't turn on

[Connor Best]

I've had a Vibox computer for the last 6 months or so, its worked wonderfully, however, today, as I was about to turn it on (was using it normally earlier) it popped, and a bright spark appeared near the back of the computer where the cables are, now it won't turn on, however the connected monitor and speakers work fine and turn on, I have no idea what to do and would really like to find a way to fix this. Thanks in advance.

 

[cub_fanatic]

I've had a Vibox computer for the last 6 months or so, its worked wonderfully, however, today, as I was about to turn it on (was using it normally earlier) it popped, and a bright spark appeared near the back of the computer where the cables are, now it won't turn on, however the connected monitor and speakers work fine and turn on, I have no idea what to do and would really like to find a way to fix this. Thanks in advance.

Have you opened it up and looked for any signs of physical damage? It sounds like your PSU might have been the component that failed. If you have a spare power supply, swap it in and see if it still works.

 

[USAFRet]

it popped, and a bright spark appeared near the back of the computer

You should find out what popped and spark. In this case, I'd suggest it is your now deceased PSU.

 

[casper1973]

I would be 95% certain your power supply has failed.

If you are lucky nothing else was damaged in the blow-out. You can't really know this for sure until actually powering it on with a working PSU.

They are fairly straightforward to replace and unless you have a small form factor PC the chances are it uses a standard ATX PSU. The wattage you require depends on what components are in your PC.


You can buy PSU testers for very cheap if you want to be certain before buying a new one. They aren't 100% accurate as no stress is put on the PSU - but should give you a good indication.
http://www.amazon.com/eForCity-24-pin-Power-Supply-Tester/dp/B005CTCD6S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1403983485&sr=8-1&keywords=psu+tester

 

[Connor Best]

I'm gonna get a hold of a new power supply tomorrow, I saw where it came from, it was a flash from the back of my computer, so I'd imagine it was the power supply as the processor and motherboard are at the very front. Although I blooming hope it wasn't either of them, the computer cost a lot.

 

[USAFRet]

A PSU that dies like that can take out multiple other items.