My PC powered off unexpectedly last night after running for about five minutes, almost like the power had been cut. It started once more but shut down again after roughly 30 seconds. Since then, it shows no signs of power at all—not even a beep or other indication of a BIOS problem. I installed a replacement power supply and reconnected all the cables, but that made no difference. I also reseated the RAM, removed and replaced the CR2032 battery, and briefly shorted the motherboard's power-switch pins with a screwdriver. Nothing happens. What component or test should I look at next?
1 Answer
Since replacing the PSU didn’t change anything and the system is completely dead, the motherboard is a strong suspect—possibly its VRM or MOSFET power circuitry. A failed board can prevent fans, lights, and other signs of power even when the PSU is working.
That’s what I was afraid of. The PC is only about two years old, so I’m really hoping the motherboard hasn’t failed already.