It functions, though it doesn't quite...
It functions, though it doesn't quite...
I purchased two used PSUs. I own three older motherboards and plan to attach one of the PSUs to each. Despite trying various setups, none are functioning properly. The 22+4 cable and the 4-pin (8-pin) connector are correctly positioned after multiple attempts to swap components. I powered on everything without anything else connected, but the PSU remains unresponsive. I removed the CMOS batteries from the boards, shorted the CMOS clear pins, and even built the system inside a case to avoid pin mistakes. When I followed the paperclip method from another thread, the fan started spinning—so it worked? I’m still unsure what’s wrong.
Have you tried Jump Starting the PSU? Here's a guide: https://bit-tech.net/guides/modding/how-...p-a-psu/1/ That will tell you if the PSU works or not Make sure not to have anything else plugged in to the PSU when you try this
Did you have a chance to review that PSU's performance prior to purchasing them? If not, you might have ended up with a PSU that's extremely powerful—definitely don't go buying used ones unless you have the opportunity to test them alongside your full system.
If it activates or not, it doesn't confirm functionality. It might still fail to deliver the required voltages and components. These PSUs have always been poor quality. They were intended for student computer shops using ultra-budget models. I doubt they were much more than just basic units—only around 20€, yet people kept purchasing them. Companies pushed them into stock, expecting demand. Once they stopped coming, they vanished quickly, damaging many PCs. Likely they’re no longer working properly. Consider a reliable new PSU instead.
You can test if everything functions properly by checking it manually first. Once you’re sure it’s working, use a multimeter to verify the readings.
But also note that it's voltage without any load, and as soon as you add a load, those components suddenly drop the voltage drastically. You can't replicate this accurately in simulations without expensive equipment. For your own protection and hardware safety, discard this setup. It has always been unreliable, and if it could even function, it would be remarkable.