My PC suddenly stopped showing any signs of power—no fans, lights, or motherboard LEDs. Earlier this year, I replaced the motherboard, RAM, CPU, and CPU cooler, while keeping the case, RTX 2050, and original power supply. The system worked for about two days, although it displayed no image on the monitor. A repair shop suspected the first replacement motherboard, so I installed another one, but that board showed no signs of receiving power either. I then replaced the PSU, but the computer still remains completely dead. Could the original PSU have damaged both motherboards, or might another component or connection be responsible? During the second motherboard installation, several CPU pins were also found to be badly bent. They were carefully straightened and the CPU was reseated, so I'm wondering whether the processor or damaged pins could be causing the total lack of power.
2 Answers
The bent CPU pins are a major clue. Even if they were straightened enough for the processor to fit, a pin that is still misaligned, cracked, or making poor contact can prevent the system from starting or reaching POST. Inspect the socket and CPU closely under strong light, and test with only the motherboard, CPU, one RAM stick, and PSU connected. Also check that the 24-pin motherboard cable, 8-pin CPU power cable, and case power-switch connector are all in the correct locations. If the parts were purchased new, contact the seller or manufacturer before ordering another board, especially if the PSU is a low-quality model.
Start with the basics: verify the wall outlet and breaker, then try a different outlet. If those are definitely fine, the PSU can be tested separately by disconnecting it from the motherboard and using the correct 24-pin jump-start method. A proper PSU tester is safest; a paperclip test is possible, but only with the exact pinout and careful handling. Also list the exact motherboard and PSU models, since compatibility and PSU quality matter. Don’t assume the fans spinning proves the system is healthy—it only confirms the PSU can start.
The breaker and outlet are working, and my brother said he already tested the 24-pin connection. I’ll gather the exact part numbers so we can check the hardware more carefully.