System unexpectedly stopped on the computer.
System unexpectedly stopped on the computer.
I was just playing ARK Survival Evolved. The PC was running normally until it shut down, showing only the RAM lights for a short time before powering off. After turning it off, unplugging the PSU, and letting it rest, the RAM light stayed on briefly before shutting down again. I then reinserted the PSU cables and restarted the game. The video playback restarted. Could anyone help identify the issue or suggest a solution?
Consider using a different power supply first, even a 300W one. If that succeeds, you might need to replace the original PSU. I haven’t heard favorable updates about fixing PSUs.
The only information I've learned is that the stored charge could be dangerous if mishandled, so I suggest purchasing a different power supply.
I attempted to use another power outlet and it functioned properly for about five hours. When I turned it off and then the power supply off, it started working again after some time. After removing all external cables and plugging in and unplugging, it turned on once more. Trying to shut down the PC, disconnecting the PSU, and reconnecting it to the same outlet caused the issue to repeat. It seems there might still be a problem with the power supply unit.
Use the paperclip test on your power supply unit. Insert the paperclip near the fan and observe its behavior. If the fan starts and runs steadily (repeat the test at least three times), it suggests an intermittent short may be caused by a device like a USB port or a failing fan. A brief spin followed by a stop indicates an internal PSU issue triggering the protection circuit.
I performed the paper clip test and everything functioned properly. After 10 trials, it operated without issues. When isolating components—just the motherboard and power supply with the 24-pin connector—it opened and worked in 5 trials as well. It’s puzzling why it failed initially; no immediate red flags. Are you worried?
If it’s functioning again then there shouldn’t be much concern. At this stage we can think it was a loose cable or part causing a short, which is why your PSU turned off right away. That’s a positive outcome—it showed the PSU was working and safeguarding the rest of the system. If you need to relocate your PC or move it to another area, handle it carefully. We don’t know for sure what led to the cable or component becoming loose.