Problems with computers following a power surge?
Problems with computers following a power surge?
My computer reports a CPU fault following a power surge at home. It randomly powers on, lets me enter the BIOS to adjust settings, but after saving and rebooting it keeps restarting endlessly. Forcing a reset only displays the red CPU debug LED without allowing it to boot again. I’ve also looked into the voltages in the BIOS, which appeared normal, but I’m unsure how to proceed.
Unless you possess certain tools to inspect components and some understanding of replacing them, it's likely best to opt for local troubleshooting or repair. I usually suggest searching for small businesses with positive feedback, such as Geek Squad, because of better pricing and more reliable service compared to big companies.
Full system specifications, including the PSU make and model (or part number), are available. The age of the PSU is also provided, along with whether it was purchased new or used/refurbished. Based on the symptoms, a power surge likely damaged something, so the PSU should be replaced first to prevent further harm to other components. However, the CPU or motherboard might also be faulty. For better protection against surges, brownouts, and blackouts, it is recommended to install a proper UPS—ideally one with a true sine wave output and line-interactive features. I can discuss UPS options in more detail, but here is the answer to your initial question.
Low grade power supply unit. Tier C.
For a gaming rig, Tier A is suitable. Examples include: Seasonic Focus/Vertex/PRIME, Corsair RMx/RMi/HXi/AXi, Super Flower Leadex Gold/Platinum/Titanium.
PSU tier list:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet...JW...1973454078
Tier A will be adequate, while Tier A+ is better.
(My three PCs are powered only by Tier A PSUs. Specifically, I own a Seasonic PRIME 650 Titanium (Tier A+), a Seasonic PRIME Ultra 650 Titanium (Tier A+) and a Seasonic Focus PX-550 (Tier A). Detailed specs with photos are in my profile.)
Upgrading to a new PSU is essential. And if other parts fail.
Possible causes are the motherboard or CPU. To determine the exact issue, take the PC to a repair shop for diagnostics. Secondly, you need a compatible machine to test components one by one.
Regarding the UPS, it should work fine as long as it has a true sine wave output and a line-interactive design.
Here are four CyberPower UPS models that meet these requirements in various capacities:
https://pcpartpicker.com/products/compar...D3,VxYWGX/
The higher the capacity, the longer the UPS can keep the PC running. Since your PSU is 850W, a UPS with that power would be sufficient. A 600W UPS will also work, though the runtime will be shorter.
By the way, I also use CyberPower UPS units: CP1300EPFCLCD (1300VA/780W), one per desktop PC.
Three possible setups:
1. Low quality PSU. With surge = PSU fails + other components fail (as happened).
2. Good quality PSU. With surge = PSU fails.
3. Good quality PSU plus UPS. With surge = UPS handles the situation, safeguarding PSU and PC, preventing failures, and also protecting against power outages.