My computer suddenly shuts down completely with no warning or blue screen. I took it to a repair shop, but it worked normally while they tested it. At home, it sometimes works after switching between a power strip and a wall outlet, and I also tried another power strip. However, it has now started powering on for about one second before shutting off again. The monitor loses signal, the wall outlet has power, and this problem has been happening ever since I got the PC. Could the power strip be faulty, or is the power supply unit more likely to be failing?
3 Answers
First make sure the outlet is actually working with another device and check that the PSU's rear switch and power cable are secure. If the PC still briefly starts and immediately shuts off, the case power button or its wiring could be faulty, but the PSU is the more common explanation. A technician can also test the motherboard power pins directly to rule out the button.
Since the entire computer loses power and only stays on for a second, the power supply is a much more likely cause than Windows or a lack of storage space. A failing PSU, a short circuit, or a protection feature being triggered can all cause this behavior. Have the shop test the PSU with proper equipment, and take the power strip with you so they can test the complete setup. Avoid repeatedly powering it on if you suspect the PSU is defective.
If your household power is unstable, a properly sized UPS with voltage regulation can help protect the computer from brownouts and voltage fluctuations. It should not be used as a substitute for replacing a failing PSU, though—get the power supply tested first, especially since the problem has existed since the PC was purchased.
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