Is this a faulty PSU?
Is this a faulty PSU?
Consider reaching out to the reseller or manufacturer, utilize their support or diagnostics, and request an RMA if approved. Ship the item, wait 2-4 weeks, and then receive a replacement that you're unsure about its condition. I definitely don’t suggest this approach and prefer getting a $10 tester instead. I value my time.
Nope, never said it did.
The OP hasn’t fully determine if the PSU is faulty. Nor where it was obtained (new, used and if warranty is even an option).
It’s normal for more recent PSU fan to stop rotating if there is no load and need for the fan to cool anything. In addition, some PSU provide single rail options and or eco switch. A $10 tester will eliminate any obvious wiring issues and provide output voltage values on every part of the PSU.
Normally, one doesn’t send away a PSU to get fixed unless they have determine it’s faulty first.
It’s an interesting PSU with it’s USB module that lets you connect to motherboard USB port to monitor PSU power/fan along with other fans that connect to it’s hub.
The decision on whether the PSU is defective lies with the manufacturer, not the user. Even suspicion is sufficient to justify a PSU return. If the PSU is found faulty, it will either be repaired and returned (EVGA appreciates this), or replaced with a new unit. If it passes inspection, it will be sent back as-is, provided the manufacturer confirms its condition. Either outcome is beneficial.
I'm one of those casual users who tries to diagnose, test, and sometimes attempt repairs on their own power supplies. I rarely keep detailed records and often struggle to recall when or where I purchased a PSU. Consequently, I'm unsure whether it's still covered under warranty. Blaming myself for not maintaining proper documentation, I find myself hesitating to send PSUs back to the manufacturer for repair or replacement—especially if they might no longer be covered.
My role has included reviewing the design of mains power supplies for Safety Critical Components prior to manufacturing and supplying them to MilSpec clients. As a design and testing specialist, I'm well aware of the dangers associated with handling high-voltage circuits beyond SELV limits. I would never recommend untrained individuals taking similar risks of electrocution or injury.
Recently, one of the dual redundant PSUs in my HP server failed to boot after POST. Although it could start the server with the second unit disconnected, the system failed to load the operating system. I inspected the PSU internally and found no obvious issues, so I opted for a few second-hand units at $10 each. It was a simpler solution than troubleshooting the problem.
HP would likely not accept such an outdated PSU under a return merchandise authorization, and I don't have an active maintenance contract with them. While I understand replacement units could eventually fail, I'm reluctant to replace two old servers just to avoid purchasing new ones—especially since they might be quite costly.
Despite decades of experience with ATX PSUs, I didn't purchase a cheap $10 tester until last year. Normally, I verify PSUs using a proper load setup and multimeter. When I received a large set of supposedly functional units, I bought the $10 tester simply to quickly assess whether they were worth keeping.
This tester is just another tool in my workshop—it's not perfect, as it doesn't fully simulate real operating conditions, but it proves useful. I'm likely not alone in understanding its limitations. Many people mistakenly believe these testers guarantee 100% health, assuming voltages are within safe ranges, which isn't accurate.
If you're comfortable building your own PC, you could try connecting the ATX PSU to one of these testers. It might aid in diagnosing faults or provide misleading results, but at just $10 it's a reasonable investment.
The paper clip test isn't suitable for everyone, and I worry about the risk of accidentally damaging a critical power rail. There are no high voltages on the secondary connectors, but a spark or smoke could alarm users if they fail to recognize it.
Well, if you have the right credentials to inspect the PSUs, you're welcome to do so. However, in the forums we can't assure the general public that it's safe. In fact, it's best to discourage anyone from attempting it for their own safety. Most people aren't ready to swap out their PC or server, but sometimes circumstances force a replacement when the PSU fails. This is my main concern about these inexpensive testers—they aren't certified, so they can provide misleading information. Because of their unreliability, I won't recommend purchasing them. It's still a significant expense, around €/£/$10.