Problem when a computer doesn't turn on when it does

simon

simon

New member
One of the computers at work (pentium 4, one of the dell optiplex 210L) has a problem.
The computer when turned on, doesn't post or anything. The light for the computer power just blinks, it appears nothing powers up as in PSU etc, is the PSU the problem or is there something a little less obvious?
 
It's probably the PSU, but I wouldn't rule out the motherboard, you'll have to test it with another PSU I reckon.
 
simon said:
One of the computers at work (pentium 4, one of the dell optiplex 210L) has a problem.
The computer when turned on, doesn't post or anything. The light for the computer power just blinks, it appears nothing powers up as in PSU etc, is the PSU the problem or is there something a little less obvious?
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if there is no post, then there is no reason to post. Its the MOBO mate, if it was the PSU you would at least get a POST from it. If the PSU were that far gone it wouldnt start at all.
 
Eugene said:
It's probably the PSU, but I wouldn't rule out the motherboard, you'll have to test it with another PSU I reckon.
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I agree just pop it open and connect another psu to it, if it still doesn't power up disconnect all the connectors except the switch and power cables.

Other than that its probably the board
 
Yep, motherboard, memory, cpu... What I usually do is just wiggle everything to make sure it is fitted properly. Everything from the memory to the graphics card and even the sata cables... except for the CPU since that is pretty much either in or out.
That usually solves my issue if I get that after making hardware changes.
 
Sometimes a good clean of dust etc does the trick. But a lack of post is the first sign that something is wrong with the MOBO if the PSU is giving power. Your mobo should let you know if anything is loose or not seated properly too.
 
thanks, will check out the power supply when I get the chance.

Got the computer working, I think it might be something wrong with the power button or the cable connecting the button to the board / psu.

Didn't swap the psu or motherboard, just had to hold the button down pretty hard when turning on and repeat process a few times and then suddenly there was a whir and on it came.
 
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simon said:
thanks, will check out the power supply when I get the chance.

Got the computer working, I think it might be something wrong with the power button or the cable connecting the button to the board / psu.

Didn't swap the psu or motherboard, just had to hold the button down pretty hard when turning on and repeat process a few times and then suddenly there was a whir and on it came.
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well least its a cheap fix than having to replace either the PSU or MB
 
I think we might have some scrap parts lying in the back so either way it wouldn't have cost anything.
The problem with the case is that it isn't easy to get inside to make changes to try fix the problem but probably more something that we will have to learn to deal with.
 
simon said:
There isn't much data that needs to be transferred. I work at an internet cafe.
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In all honesty time = money for you, Do you have some sort of imaging or fail over to quickly restore pc's for your patrons? I would highly recommend Acronis for workstation to get up and running asap :)
 
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