When I tried to turn on my PC, it made a very loud popping sound. The RGB lights still come on, but there's no other activity and it doesn't even reach the BIOS screen. I suspect the power supply, although I can't see any obvious burn marks or damaged parts. It's the oldest component in the system and has accumulated a lot of dust. The motherboard is only about a year or so old and looks clean. I'm also nervous about inspecting inside the PSU because it may still hold a dangerous charge, and I don't currently have a spare PSU to test with.
2 Answers
A failed capacitor or another component inside the PSU could easily cause a loud pop. I’d treat the power supply as the main suspect and replace or test it before trying to power the PC again. Don’t open the PSU itself—capacitors can retain a dangerous charge even after it’s unplugged.
The fact that the RGB remains lit doesn’t prove the PSU is healthy; the small standby rail can still work while another power rail has failed. Check the motherboard for bulging or leaking capacitors, cracks, scorching, or debris that could have caused a short, but keep in mind failed components may show no visible damage. A PSU tester or a known-good replacement would be the best next diagnostic step. Avoid replacing multiple parts at random, since that can become expensive quickly.
I checked the motherboard and didn’t see anything unusual. It’s relatively new, while the power supply is much older and had a lot of dust buildup, so the PSU still seems more likely to me.
That’s what I’m worried about. I don’t have a spare PSU, but this one is the oldest part in the system and was pretty dusty, so replacing it may be the safest first step.