PC fails to activate when CPU_PWR is connected
PC fails to activate when CPU_PWR is connected
Hi all,
The PC specifications are as follows: MOBO PRO Z690-A, CPU 13600k, GPU AMD 7900XTX, PSU Enermax Revolution D.F ERF850EWT.
For years it has been running smoothly, but recently it started working properly only when I power it on. After a few seconds of booting, it shuts off without showing anything on the monitor. When I try to restart, the power button doesn’t work—no LEDs, no fans, nothing.
I disconnected everything and tested the PSU separately with a paperclip method; it functioned correctly. I placed cables back in slowly and found the problem. Plugging in the 18-pin and 10-pin MOTO resolved the issue, but when using the CPU power cable (8pin), the PSU makes a clicking sound yet nothing happens. No fans either.
I removed the CPU, checked the pins, re-applied thermal paste, but the problem persists.
Could a new 8-pin CPU work? Would a new PSU help? Is my CPU still dead?
Help me please!
My PC has always functioned well over the years, no problems at all. Recently, when I turn it on, it only boots for a few seconds before shutting down completely.
PSU: Enermax Revolution D.F ERF850EWT
How recent is your PSU?
I decided to remove the PC to investigate and tested the PSU using the paperclip trick—it performed perfectly.
The paperclip method isn’t reliable; it only confirms the PSU can start up, not how much power it delivers.
Could a replacement CPU with 8pin connectors work? Would a new PSU be suitable? Is my CPU still operational?
You’ll need to obtain a high-quality PSU capable of delivering 850W from someone else—either a friend or neighbor—to eliminate the possibility that your current PSU is the cause. You might also try placing your processor on a known functional motherboard to see if the issue continues.
How are you managing the cooling for your processor?
Sorry, I didn’t catch your other questions. I’ve been handling the PSU for about two-thirds of the time now.
I can't locate the other 8pin to 8pin cable. It seems to be missing, and I'm sorry if it came with a spare. I also checked the two different CPU sockets—there are two on the mobo, CPU_PWR and CPU_PWR_1—and tried both of them too.
The "paper clip test" is meant solely to verify a dead power supply unit. It provides no information about performance when under load. Given your PSU has a 7-year warranty, you should be able to request a replacement via RMA. If possible, bring your entire PC to a service center and have them test it using a known good PSU.