Question about PSU Corsair RM possible failure due to lightning, seeking advice without opinions.
Question about PSU Corsair RM possible failure due to lightning, seeking advice without opinions.
I sell PC components as someone who has some background in electronics, but not the specialized kind required. To be careful, I need to consult those who are more experienced than me.
This person bought a Corsair RM 650 modular from me, but later his PC wouldn’t start. Half of his devices stopped working... a lightning strike near his condo brought current into his flat and it was okay. I felt guilty because I gave him a new PSU in exchange for about 60% of its cash value. Now I’m unsure if the PSU he returned actually works, but I’m worried about trying it.
His PC worked after I replaced the old PSU...
1) There was no odor coming from it... or now... just it wouldn’t start.
2) The electronics look completely fine.
3) The 8-pin CPU cable was torn; the wire with +12V came out, and the 20cm length was fully exposed. When I touched it, I got a mild shock—just a bit of zapping.
My guess is his PC didn’t start because of a short in the 8-pin CPU cable or because high current was trapped in the modular bay...
What are the chances that only one modular bay is damaged while others are fine?
What’s the likelihood the PSU is completely fine if I remove the 8-pin module and install a new one?
I have a multi-meter rated at 1000V. Could I somehow test specific pins safely, knowing it works?
And now I believe the PSU has actually worked, though I'm really nervous about trying it... What gives you confidence that it's okay? You might want to reach out to Corsair and ask if they can return the unit or replace it for a small fee so you can add it to your shelf.
They won't RMA lightning strikes, here it counts as "act of god or higher power" non warranty applicable... Modular PSU features these distinct connectors, each with its own SMD and ceramic capacitor, suggesting separate modules like a ship. Only one of many "modular bays" appears damaged or dead (current wire open around 12v). I lack full knowledge about how modular PSUs function. It is indeed compromised, but could the cable be the cause of the short? I’m considering testing it on an old, faulty core 2 duo motherboard that’s been sitting in storage—like a sacrificed goat. I assumed it was dead, but what if the cable tearing caused a wire to touch metal inside the desktop case, preventing the PC from starting? I’ve seen cases where people tried to adapt 2 molex adapters for CPU and one pin fell out due to cheap construction and contact with the case, which could lead to similar issues. The 12v connection on the CPU was likely removed by a wire touching the case, possibly even the motherboard itself. This makes me wonder if the unit actually works properly.