In many desktop computers, issues on the power supply unit are usually uncommon. Many average desktop users will often overlook power supply problems in favor of other internal hardware components such as the graphics processing unit and random-access memory. It is true that these common hardware components are usually the first to wear out. However, appropriately isolating the main problem of a desktop PC can be a hard process. In this document, we shall discuss issues of the power supply and when and how to replace this component.
For an experienced technician, it is relatively easy to diagnose a power supply problem as compared to someone with little maintenance knowledge. For instance, when the parity check message appears, it may be an issue with the power system. For most people, this is rather strange since the parity check message refers to failed memory. However, the connection of the two is that the power supply energizes the memory, and with limited power, the memory is incapacitated (HP Development Company, 2019). The following are the common PC problems related to the power supply:
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System start-up failures
Spontaneous rebooting during usual operation
Random parity check paired with memory error codes
The mechanical drive and fan both failing to spin
Elevated core temperatures resulting from fan failure
Small power instabilities cause the computer to reset to its defaults
Minor static waves felt on the computer case
Slight static discharges hinder desktop operation
Computer is completely dead
Signs of smoke, either by vision or by smell
Burnt circuit breakers
Looking at the above list of common power supply problems, it seems difficult to decipher the problem to be related to the power supply, especially since the problems can occur in any desktop in good condition but using an unstable operating system. Possible key questions that will guarantee the problem to originate from the power system are as follows:
Is there a whirling sound coming from the hard disk compartment area?
Can you see or hear the fan spinning during initial startup?
Is there any visible smoke or the smell of smoke around the desktop part?
Is the system completely dead?
An affirmative answer in either or all of the above questions will likely indicate a problem with the power supply. In many cases of failed power supply units, the client will want a guide on how best to avoid the problems after a replacement of the power supply system. This requires the technician to be aware of the specifications of the system as each system has its unique power requirements. Such specifications could include the processor currently being used in the system, since for each CPU package, the wattage requirements are different depending on the power and design of the core package. Also, for people who are involved in Esports competitions, the GPU is the main focus, since it is the primary consumer of power. Having a GPU with higher parallelizing speeds will subsequently require more wattage, hence a stronger power supply system (Reddit, 2019). Additional specifications such as the type of workload the desktop handles can serve to guide in power supply replacement since the heavier the load, the more power the system needs.
With all these in mind, the next step is to explain to the consumer on the steps of selecting and replacing a power supply system. The main focus when selecting a power supply unit is getting it from a trusted brand, for example, MSI. More often than not, trusted manufacturers supply better grade equipment as compared to OEM products. Moreover, getting the right amount of wattage is necessary to avoid system spool-ups due to a limited power supply. When selecting the power supply unit, additional critical steps include the motherboard size and pin connectors, the amount of cooling a particular PSU can support and also, the peripherals the power unit will be required to support (Reddit, 2019). At most, a 1200-watt PSU is more than enough for high-end desktop tasks such as competitive Esports gaming or simulations.
Once a feasible power supply unit has been identified, replacing the faulty one requires additional steps that are case specific to the desktop PC. The following are the steps of replacing a tower mounted desktop PC:
Before attempting any disassembly, you will need a flat head screwdriver and disconnect the computer from any cables, inclusive of networking and power cables (HP Development Company, 2019).
Move the computer to a clear, stable work surface over a non-carpeted floor to prevent loss of components.
CAUTION : To prevent static damage of the internal components, an anti-static wrist strap is recommended when working on a computer.
During the removal of the faulty PSU, disconnect component cables and trace each cable to help you remember the location of attachment.
NOTE : plugs on the PSU are keyed and can only be inserted when aligned properly with the component connector.
WARNING : the case is made of metal, and the metal edges can cut skin.
With all the above done, the steps below detail replacing the power supply unit:
Remove the side and front panel and lay the computer on its side.
Locate the power supply unit in the computer. It is usually at the rear end either the top or bottom of the casing.
Trace each cable from the power unit and disconnect it. Mark the location of each cable to ease in the reassembly.
Remove the screws that secure the power supply unit and slightly move it left and then down to free it from the computer.
Replace the new power supply unit and work the steps in reverse to reassemble the computer.
References
HP Development Company. (2019). Replacing the Power Supply in HP Pavilion Elite Desktop PCs. Retrieved from https://support.hp.com/us-en/document/c01882342
Reddit. (2019). How to pick a quality power supply unit. Power Supply Unit Tier List: ranked from the top quality to practically garbage. Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/buildapc/comments/akl132/how_to_pick_a_quality_power_sup ply_unit_power/
