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Forums › Desktop computing › Computer probs - not turning on sometimes


99 posts

Master Geek
Topic # 76527 3-Feb-2011 12:36 Send private message

We have a compaq presario about 3-4 yrs old with Vista home premium. We've not had a problem with the computer in the time we've had it, but yesterday my wife could not get it turn it on.
I asked her to check if everything was plugged into the back of the PC ok and into the power board...etc... and it was all ok.... I asked her to turn the power off at the wall and wait about 10 mins before turning it back on and trying again. Finally she phoned me and said it had come on after about 4 attempts.

Now (today) she phoned me and said  that she is having the same problem as yesterday!! (PC won't turn on)

Does anyone know what this problem could be?

I may have to call comeone like Geeks on wheels or Need a nerd - or take it somewhere to be looked at... but if anyone has an idea of what the problem could be it would be very much appreciated!

thanks

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xpd

Minecraft n00b
5347 posts

Uber Geek

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  Reply # 434779 3-Feb-2011 12:49 Send private message

Could be power supply on its way out or motherboard (unlikely tho) or just dirty contacts in the switch.

Where abouts are you located ?
A friendly local GZ'er might be able to take a look for the price of a beer :)




XPD / @DemiseNZ / Gavin
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99 posts

Master Geek
  Reply # 434787 3-Feb-2011 12:57 Send private message

thanks for that - I was thinking it might be something to do with the power switch
.... hopefully it is not the mother board otherwise that will be a huge (financial) headache..

I am in Christchurch and have plenty of cold beer in the fridge!

Cheers

300 posts

Ultimate Geek
  Reply # 434809 3-Feb-2011 13:33 Send private message

This is a very common problem and one which I have dealt with countless times.  Try totally unplugging it from the power for about 12 hours.  It may then power up as normal again.  If not, then most likely the PSU (power supply unit), will need replacing.



99 posts

Master Geek
  Reply # 434864 3-Feb-2011 14:49 Send private message

mxpress: This is a very common problem and one which I have dealt with countless times.  Try totally unplugging it from the power for about 12 hours.  It may then power up as normal again.  If not, then most likely the PSU (power supply unit), will need replacing.


thanks for that... is a PSU very expensive? will I have to leave the PC at a 'repair shop' for a few days?

I'll make a few enquiries

thanks again!

xpd

Minecraft n00b
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  Reply # 434876 3-Feb-2011 15:06 Send private message

PSU should be straight forward enough to do long as it isnt one of those annoying smaller PSU's HP/Compaq install at times.... if its a standard ATX powersupply then you should be able to pick one up for around $40-60 - they are straight forward to install, but if youre not confident to do so, then best bet is a local tech to do it for you.

Obviously tho you'll probably be charged a premium for getting a tech store to do it for you.




XPD / @DemiseNZ / Gavin
Website

CPU : Intel E5300  GFX: Geforce 9800GTX/+  RAM: 3GB DDR2

A+ - MCDST - MCTS
CCNA Arriving soon.

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