The newly assembled PC is not functioning properly.
The newly assembled PC is not functioning properly.
Hello,
I am assembling a budget PC using both used and new parts. Once everything is assembled, there is no power and the power supply fan isn’t turning on. I tried connecting the power supply with a paperclip trick, and the fan started working on that setup, but I’m not sure it means the PSU is faulty. All three components I had (GPU, CPU, motherboard) were advertised as working by the sellers on eBay, which I bought from.
The motherboard lacks debug lights, and there are no beep codes coming through the system speaker. No fans are spinning up either. I have submitted a return merchandise authorization for the power supply, but I’m waiting to get more details before sending it back, in case it’s not the issue.
Here’s my build:
- CPU: Intel Core i5 8400 (used)
- Motherboard: GIGABYTE B360M DS3H (used)
- RAM: Corsair Vengeance 2x8 GB DDR4 3200
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX Titan X (Maxwell, not Pascal) (used)
- SSD: PNY CS900 240GB (from an old PC)
- Case: Zalman T3 Plus
- PSU: MSI MAG A650 BN
- CPU cooler: Thermalright Assassin X 120 Refined SE Plus
- Total cost: around $350
Thanks!
Do you have a multimeter and understand how to operate it? Or do you know someone who does?
You can check the PSU directly.
Note:
https://www.lifewire.com/how-to-manually...er-2626158
Any voltages outside the acceptable range suggest the PSU is likely faulty.
I possess a multimeter and understand its operation. Although it comes from Harbor Freight, it isn't particularly high quality. I plan to check every connection and share the measurements.
I completed the testing. Every connection stayed within acceptable ranges, though a few were near their limits. Pin 14 (-12V) measured -10.9, Pin 9 (5VSB) was 5.1, CPU and PCI-E readings were 12.3. I’m not sure if these details are critical, since ±0.1 volts shouldn’t prevent the system from powering on with ATX tolerances. This likely indicates the power supply unit isn’t the problem.
Tolerances generally stay between 5 to 10%, yet 12v at 10.9 seems concerning, possibly due to measurement rather than the power supply itself.
What do you believe the next best step should be? I think checking the PSU under load might be a wise move. I’ve heard you could bypass the PSU by connecting the back of the ATX connector to the motherboard via solder joints. Is this approach similar to pressing the power button?
I could also try inserting an old hard drive and see if it starts when you jump the PSU with a paperclip.
Update: I attempted using a hard drive, and it worked perfectly.