Things You'll Need:
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- Multimeter
- Extra power cable
- Anti-static wrist strap
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Step 1
Plug a different device into the wall outlet to make sure your building's wiring and electrical outlets are not causing the problem.
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Step 2
Replace your computer's power cable with a different one to make sure the cable hasn't become frayed or simply gone bad.
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Step 3
Remove the power cable and all of the other cords from the back of the computer. Set the computer case on its side on a stable surface. Use a screwdriver to remove all of the case screws, then slide the panel off so you can see inside the case. Visually inspect the power supply for any obvious damage, such as if it fell out of the drive bay or had liquid spilled on it.
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Step 4
Ensure that the cable running from the power supply to the motherboard is firmly connected at both ends.
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Step 5
Plug the power cord back into the computer while the case is still open, but do not yet turn on the power switch. Put on an anti-static wrist strap, then ground yourself by touching something metal (other than the computer) that is connected to the floor.
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Step 6
MultimeterGet out a multimeter and change its default setting so that it will read DC voltage. Remove one of the cables running from the power supply to any other device, such as a CD drive, then turn on the computer. Attach the multimeter's red probe to the yellow wire on the power cable, then attach the black probe to the black wire on the power cable.
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Step 7
Check the reading on the multimeter. If it is more or less than 12 volts, the power supply is bad and needs to be replaced.
