Computer probs - not turning on sometimes

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OnceBitten

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#76527 3-Feb-2011 12:36

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

xpd

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#434779 3-Feb-2011 12:49

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 / Gavin

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OnceBitten

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#434787 3-Feb-2011 12:57

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

mxpress

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#434809 3-Feb-2011 13:33

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.

OnceBitten

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#434864 3-Feb-2011 14:49

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

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#434876 3-Feb-2011 15:06

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 / Gavin

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