This query about the Acer P03-600 PSU fan with noise and instability needs to be addressed carefully.
This query about the Acer P03-600 PSU fan with noise and instability needs to be addressed carefully.
I prepared my previous computer to avoid being a beginner, but...that was in '08! Things have changed a bit since then. LOL.
A few months back, the PSU fan began making noise...not extremely loud, but definitely noticeable. It was intermittent and usually stopped when I restarted the system. Now it keeps making the sound continuously. It also changes direction occasionally (if that makes sense). I saw a video about opening the PSU to clean the fan, but it made me nervous because of concerns about electric shock.
I might try cleaning or replacing the fan, but given the fear of electrocution and uncertainty, I’m hesitant. The main problem is that this PC uses an ATX12VO motherboard. I read something on the forum about it, but it was just a discussion, not practical advice for handling this unusual PSU. If I choose to replace the PSU, what should I do? I’ve reached out to ACER several times, but they haven’t provided any useful guidance. Their answers were confusing and gave me conflicting suggestions.
Any advice would be welcome. I’m retired, so finances are limited. Thanks!
Disconnect the PC and press and hold the power button for ten seconds. The sensitive capacitors inside a PSU are the critical component. From all PSUs I have disassembled, the fan was positioned in a way that minimized disturbance to the board except for the header connection. As long as you remain attentive, you should be able to clean the fan and possibly gather the necessary data before replacement. Reflecting on the PSU, it might still carry a warranty if you retain the original packaging and receipt. I assume you assembled this system yourself rather than buying a ready-made unit. Begin with the manufacturer’s guidance, as it seems appropriate for your setup. If you don’t receive a response, reaching out to the store where you bought the power supply could be useful in initiating further steps.
if this is some prebuilt OEM system you normally can't replace the power supply with a retail version.
to do so you would likely have to also replace the motherboard and possibly the case housing them.
How many years old is this PSU? What is the precise model? If the fan is the issue, it's probably the bearing and fixing it by cleaning won't work.