Testing an ATX power supply can help determine if it needs to be replaced.
It can be difficult to figure out why a computer isn't working, especially since it's composed of many fragile parts. The ATX power supply may be to blame if the computer refuses to turn on or if it intermittently switches on and off. There are several steps you can take to determine if there is a problem with the power supply.
Instructions
1. Unplug the computer from its current outlet. Plug it into a different outlet. If it still will not power on, continue with the next step to isolate the problem.
2. Replace the power cable with a spare one. This is to test whether the normal cable has become inoperable for some reason.
3. Remove all cords attached to the computer. Wear the anti-static wrist strap and place the computer on a stable surface. Unscrew the door panel from the case and remove it. Inspect the power supply to see if any obvious damage has occurred, such as liquid spilling on the casing.
4. Check that the motherboard cable is connected on both sides.
5. Plug in the computer without closing the case. Do not turn on the computer. Touch something metal (other than the computer) to ground yourself. This will ensure that no harm is done to the electronic parts.
6. Change the default setting of the multimeter to show DC voltage. Remove a cable that is attached to the power supply. Power on the computer.
7. Attach the yellow power cable wire to the red multimeter probe. Attach the black power cable wire to the black probe. Read the multimeter. Replace the power supply unit if the voltage is anything other than 12 volts.
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