What is causing this ?

[andsome]

A friend is having a severe problem with her computer. Yesterday it would not run at all. There is a power light on the anti surge lead, the fuse in the plug is OK, the orange light is on the monitor and there is power in the speakers. The computer itself however remains dead. No HD running, no fans running. Is the most likely cause of the a failed power supply?

If this is likely to be the cause, how easy would it be for me to replace it for her? The only time I have tinkered about inside a computer case was when I recently fitted a DVD burner into my own computer.

[Alan2273]

It sounds like the PSU, how old is the computer?, and did it work OK before this happened?.

If it is the psu gone, it could have taken other components with it.

Here is a guide with pictures on how to change a PSU.

http://www.hardwaresecrets.com/article/362/2

[-pops-]

First, is there a fuse in the power supply unit (one of those cartridge-type things)? Check that out first.

Regarding replacing the unit, it's fairly easy - the most difficult part is the removal of the old one - they are usually in quite a restricted space. The units usually sit on rails in the box and are held only by the four screws attaching it to the rear of the case. Unfasten the screws and loosen/remove the unit but DO NOT UNPLUG ANY OF THE CONNECTORS. Install the new unit and then, in sequence, swap over the new for old plugs on the various parts. Do the main motherboard one first (20 or so wires) then the peripherals (hard drive, optical drives etc.) You will doubtless end up with wires that don't go anywhere but you will have those on the old unit anyway so no worry there. Ensure any fans that take power direct from the unit are connected (some use the PSU, others take power from the motherboard). There may be a power connector to the graphics card if it's one of these super high powered things but this is exceptional. That's it really, except to ensure that the connectors are all fully seated before switching on.

[andsome]

Thanks for the prompt replies. On reflection, especially as other components may have gone down, I think that the local shop may be best. The computer is about three years old, and apart from problems getting Talk Talk up and running everything was fine until a couple of days ago. I have never seen inside this one, so don't know if there are any internal fuses.

[-pops-]

The fuse I meant would be visible on the rear panel.

[Rebel=UK=]

what about the fuse on the plug? and if you do get a new PSU get a good brand one (Corsair,OCZ,Hiper) Avoid Q-Tec like the plague. You get what you pay for.

[andsome]

Found that there was a loose connection, so got everything up and running again. She complained that everything had got slower and slower for the last few days, so I gave everything a good clear out, scans, Crap Cleaner etc, but it made no difference. Clicking on start meant a wait of at least 10 seconds up to 15 seconds for the start menu to appear. Restarted up with CD ROM in drive and tried to implement a repair, but this would only go so far and then asked for an administrator password. She has NEVER used one. Could not get past this point so contacted the local shop. He talked me through exactly the same procedure with the same result. She is taking it in tomorrow for a full diagnostic check up. Thanks all for your replies.