Question PC starts and stops repeatedly - think PSU or motherboard might be the problem?
Question PC starts and stops repeatedly - think PSU or motherboard might be the problem?
Hello everyone,
I’m dealing with a recurring issue where my PC briefly powers on and then shuts off, only to restart again. After thorough testing, I’ve gathered all the relevant details to share with others who might assist.
System Specifications:
Motherboard: ASRock B450 Pro4 (new replacement)
CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 5500
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce 3050 Low Profile (removed for testing)
RAM: Silicon Power Value Gaming DDR4 16GB (one stick tested, other removed)
Storage: TEAMGROUP MP33 512GB M.2 SSD
PSU: Thermaltake 600W
Case Fans: 6 LED fans powered directly from PSU
Symptoms:
The system starts for a few seconds, then powers off. The PSU fans cease spinning too. After powering down, it tries to restart repeatedly. Everything appears normal when I disconnect the 24-pin connector and use the paperclip test—PSU remains active. The problem only occurs when connecting the 24-pin to the motherboard. Removing the motherboard from its case seems to resolve the issue.
Steps Taken:
- Confirmed PSU works via paperclip test.
- Rechecked all power cables (24-pin, CPU power 8-pin).
- Ran tests with GPU removed and single RAM stick.
- Disconnected motherboard from case to prevent shorts.
- Connected fans directly from PSU without issues.
Possible Causes:
- Insufficient power delivery from the PSU.
- Motherboard fault affecting stable power supply.
- Power handling limitations of the 600W PSU under load.
What I Lack:
I don’t have a spare PSU for further testing, which makes me lean toward a power-related problem, though I’m uncertain.
Anyone else faced similar issues with a 600W PSU on a B450 motherboard? Could this be a hardware concern specific to my setup? Your insights would be invaluable!
Thank you!
Welcome to the forums, newcomer!
PSU
: Thermaltake 600W
Thermaltake is the brand of the PSU, while 600W is the advertised wattage of the unit. What is the model and age of the unit?
The product listed on Amazon is the Thermaltake SMART 600W ATX 12V V2.3/EPS 12V 80 Plus Certified Active PFC Power Supply PS-SPD-0600NPCWUS-W.
Switch to a reliable power source, upgrade it for better performance.