My Corsair RM850e 850W Gold power supply makes a click when I turn the computer on and another click when I shut it down. I don't remember hearing this before. There was a brief power outage lasting about three seconds while the PC was turned off, and the surge protector's indicator light now appears dimmer. The computer boots normally, the RAM is running at the expected speed, and everything seems to work. I already replaced the surge protector, but the clicking continued. Should I be concerned about the PSU or the power outlet?
3 Answers
Corsair units can make this sound, while other models may be nearly silent. If it's only one clean click and the PC is stable, it usually isn't a problem. A brief outage may simply have made you notice a behavior that was already there.
Since the surge protector was replaced and the sound remains, the protector itself is less likely to be the cause. Still, the dim indicator is worth taking seriously—try a different wall outlet or have the outlet checked, especially if you notice flickering, buzzing, heat, or repeated PSU clicking.
That click is usually the internal relay switching. Many power supplies use a mechanical relay as part of their soft-start circuit to limit the initial inrush current, so a single click during startup and shutdown is generally normal.
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