Power loss

[shatch]

Hi

A friends computer seems to be having some problems, it seems fine but keeps losing power and switching itself off. After power loss it takes a few minutes before it boots again

The CPU and board temps seem to be in the normal range and the fan is working.

He did replace his 300W PSU to a 400W but this has made no difference.

I would appreciate any ideas, i was thinking of replacing the CPU fan, or at least applying some more silicone gel, but since the temerature doesnt seem to be getting above 35oC i dont know if its worth it.

Thanks in advance

 

[pmonett]

When and with what do you measure the CPU temperature ?
The best measures are taken with a dedicated app that corresponds best to motherboard specifications. Asus gives the Probe app that you can use in real-time in Windows to check the evolution. I suggest that you find the site of the maker of the motherboard and find a tool there.
You say that the PSU was replaced, but not if the replacement is new. The PSU could have a fan problem - that could account for brutal shutdown and maybe even for the restart delay.

Check the PSU fan and see if it turns freely. If it stops quickly when you spin it manually, then you should probably use an air cleaner and retry.

Pascal.

 

[shatch]

Thanks for the advice. I have been using the package which came with the motherboard to check the CPU temperature, so that should be OK... its also being checked in the BIOS when the computer comes back on.

I have had a look at the new PSU and its fine, brand new and hardly any dust, and spins freely.

There is, i have noticed a very faint alarm sound as the computer switches off, but i dont know whats making it.

Simon

 

[bcastner]

Check for leaky capacitors. This is not an uncommon problem.

http://www.spectrum.ieee.org/WEBONLY/resource/feb03/ncap.html

http://www.stevequayle.com/News.alert/03_Tech/030219.computer.whodunnit.html

http://www.overclockers.com/tips1081/