How to test a PSU?
How to test a PSU?
Hi, I assembled a new computer today. But I had no luck turning it on. I checked the front IO connectors to make sure the power button was connected correctly. I checked all the cables were properly seated. Whenever I plug in the power supply, turn on the switch and hit the power button. There is no reaction. Now I suspect the power supply was dead on arrival. How would I go about checking if the power supply is dead? It's a SilverStone HELA 1200R.
The paperclip test is the simplest method for this. It doesn't verify the PSU functions, but it can confirm failure. https://www.silverstonetek.com/upload/do.../PSU-Paper Clip-EN.pdf Remember you may need to switch the fan-less mode on the back to ensure it's not in hybrid fan-less mode before testing.
It can be quite challenging with today’s hardware, especially when zero-fan mode requires specific connections like LEDs or motors to verify power. Earlier setups made it simpler since case fans connected directly to the PSU and you could hear the drive spin up. The most reliable approach is purchasing a basic PSU tester that confirms voltage rails are active and within spec—though this only works with a base load, not a full test. It’s a bit costly if you’re using it just once.
Absolutely, I've had the good fortune that all the power supplies I own will start their fans before shutting them down, which means the paper clip test still functions properly. If you're looking to quickly verify this, getting a Molex/SATA fan adapter can be a smart move. They tend to be more affordable than basic PSU testers, though they might be a bit less smooth.
Thanks for sharing your experience. After testing various fixes, it seems the issue might be more serious than initially thought. You may need to carefully inspect the CPU cooler and possibly replace it if necessary. Re-socketing memory and reinserting the CPU could also help. If those steps don’t resolve the problem, consider checking for any hidden damage or failing components. It’s possible the motherboard was indeed faulty from the start. Let me know what you find next!
Confirmed. Thank you for the assistance—I'll re-socket the CPU and RAM tomorrow and follow up on this thread later.
Hey there, I saw you tried re-seating the CPU and a RAM stick. You still have two M.2 SSDs inside. The power button pins got shorted, and you heard a faint 'tick' from the power supply. But everything isn’t working—no lights, no spinning, nothing at all. Do you need to run more tests before sending the board back for a fix? Thanks for your help!
Sure, please confirm. I understand you're concerned about the cost of returning an item that functions properly. You've already begun the return process, and I appreciate your trust in my guidance.