[GrTech2009]

Hi I'm new to the forum and I'm also pretty new to help desk support. I knew most of the basic stuff but there is one thing I would really like to know.

I have an old computer that is not turning on at all. I have checked the plugs and the power cord and they seem to be working fine. The computer is connected to a surge protector and so is the monitor. The monitor turns on but the CPU does not.

I'm thinking it might be the power supply but since I'm a newbie I don't know how to test the power supply unit for failure. Can some one show me how to do this and if you have any other suggestions as to what might be the cause of this?

 

[dai]

what are you running
video card
cpu
m/board
ram
power supply
brand
wattage

check it with a multi meter or see if you can borrow one of higher wattage to try in it

http://www.driverheaven.net/guides/testingPSU/

 

[GrTech2009]

This is and old old old computer I'm talking about 10 Years old at least. I haven't opened it at all and quite frankly I don't think I will have the time.

However if I do get around to opening it up I just wanted to know how to set my multi-meter to the right settings so it can read if it has power or not. I also want to know how to test for other things like mb failure or cpu failure. How does an IT guy determine these things are failing when the computer is in limp mode lol.

BTW This info would help me out so much.

 

[Tyree]

You will be required to open it up to test the power supply.
Voltmeter should be set to 12V readings.
http://articles.techrepublic.com.com/5100-10878_11-1056686.html

 

[dai]

to test other components you need to check them in another computer
see how you go with the psu first

 

[speedster123]

also, bypass the surge protector. plug the computer directly into the wall socket.