Pc Problems ...

Thaldarin · May 2004

<div class="IPBDescription">Effectively 'blew up'</div> Hey guys I need some advice about my computer, or lack of.

I was just surfing on the internet yesterday evening and the computer turns itself off, green light flashes at the plug socket and out comes sparks. I've replaced the power cable (not the supply itself as the the cable fuse would have blown) and I've tried to start the computer up again, no joy. I've also checked out processor, graphics card etc. and they're not melted or fried.

I was wondering if the whole of the computer is now useless? If it could just be the power supply? And if anyone has an idea on what caused this.

CForrester · May 2004

Try the power supply in another computer. If it works, then it might be your motherboard. Disconnect everything but the essentials and try to power on.

Cyndane · May 2004

That had to be one massive power surge to cause sparks from the outlet... At least it was a pretty show for a while.. but it is probably the powersupply even though I am a comp nub... I say.. do as Forrester said and then if that doesn't work.. buy a new one either power supply or full new computer.. if you have the resources.

Infinitum · May 2004

How about you just try a different power outlet at your house....

Thaldarin · May 2004

</div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> (Infinitum @ May 26 2004, 03:35 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'> How about you just try a different power outlet at your house....  </td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'> 
done that

Talesin · May 2004

Try a different computer. Most likely the PSU stopped it (I'm assuming you've tried a different power cord.. there arent any 'fuses' in a standard power cord. :b) however there's the possibility it went past.

If the PSU is fried, buy a new PSU. If it's not... well. Your entire system may now be dead. Electronics don't need to LOOK melted to be worthless silicon. Given that a little spark like that picked up from shuffling on carpet can turn that $500 video card into a paperweight, anything where green sparks shot out of any part of something related to the computer could very easily toast the machine.

This is why you always use a surge protector. (PS: If you do have a surge protector, most use a circuit breaker, not a fuse... try resetting it if it's the breaker kind)

Spooge · May 2004

Agreed. Always use a surge protector. And, if you have cable internet service, always use a surge protector with a coax input/output. Same is true for any televisions you have. Many people want to protect their equipment from lighting strikes in the power system. But a lightning surge can travel into your cable lines even easier (no breaker box to soak up the load).

Cyndane · May 2004

Yes.. that is very true... while I was installing home theaters a while ago everyone always liked to ask why we ran their cable/satillete(sp) through a surge protector.. then we explained at least then the protector (well the ones we used) was allowing for insurance against lightning strikes.. for even with a protector.. more then likely you will lose your system IF hit with a lightning strike.. its hard to stop 50,000 volts.. especially with lightning quick speed (pun intended) :-)

Pc Problems ...

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