PC occasionally fails to power on unexpectedly.
PC occasionally fails to power on unexpectedly.
So I've faced this issue for a while now where my PC won't turn on at all. It's become more common over time, around about 8 months after the machine was built. In the past, fixing it was simple—just unplugging the PC from the wall and holding the power button to restart it. But now it doesn't work the same way; I also need to unplug the 24-pin motherboard power cable and let it sit for at least three or five minutes. Usually, this would happen when I left the PC plugged in with the PSU switch on, but the PC was off (like during a week-long vacation), but now it's happening randomly.
I can leave it for a few days and it powers up fine, though sometimes I wake up and find it won't start unless I turn it off completely at night. I've tried various solutions—disabling XMP, using a paper clip test (PSU passed), turning off overclocking—but nothing helped. Some people have suggested replacing the CMOS battery, which I did about a month ago since I was also dealing with random shutdowns. That worked when I updated the BIOS three years ago.
I'm pretty sure the problem is related to the PSU or the motherboard, but I want to be sure before deciding to replace one or both. Here are my details:
- CPU: Ryzen 5 5600
- GPU: Asrock radeon 6900xt
- RAM: gskill Trident 16GB 3600 DDR4
- Motherboard: MSI B550M VC-Wifi
- PSU: Thermaltake GF1 850W 80+ gold
- Built in: December 2022
If you need more details, I'm happy to share. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated!
Welcome to the forums, newcomer!
This issue has become more common over time, around about 8 months after the PC was assembled. Previously, I would simply unplug the PC from the wall and press the power button to discharge it, which would then restart.
It seems you might be experiencing a grounding problem in your space or at least with the wall outlet connected to your system. Do you notice a slight tingling when touching the metal part of your case while your feet are on a tiled floor without carpet or wood?
MOBO: MSI B550M VC-Wifi
What BIOS version is installed on your motherboard?
I’m sure it’s either the PSU or the MBOARD, but I’d like to be certain before spending money on replacements.
If you think the power supply is the cause, consider borrowing a reliable PSU with at least 850W from a friend or neighbor. If the problem disappears, it’s likely the PSU.
Paper clip test (PSU works)
This test only confirms the PSU is active and can deliver power; it doesn’t reveal how much actual power your build can handle.
Do you notice a slight tingling when touching the metal part of your case while your feet touch a tiled floor? This is rare, as I've tested various outlets in different areas with and without surge protectors and haven't experienced this issue.
What BIOS version are you using for your motherboard?
7C95vHD (latest)
If you press the power button and the PC remains inactive with no signs of operation (no lights, no fans), then it's likely a faulty PSU. However, if the PC responds but the monitor displays a black screen, the issue might stem from a corrupted Windows installation, a damaged hard drive, or incorrect BIOS settings.
If the PSU is the issue (probably), it’s best to get a reliable PSU of adequate capacity to test. Alternatively, purchase a replacement from a store with a solid return policy—be prepared for a 15% refund if necessary. I recommend checking the PSU first before the motherboard since that’s simpler initially.
Static testing offers no insight into how the PSU performs during operation under stress.