Question:

“I require immediate assistance with my computer. After initiating a shutdown yesterday, the process took an unusually long time without any indication of an update or a halted process on the screen. After waiting over five minutes, I powered off my UPS. Today, when I attempted to turn on my PC, it failed to start. Despite reconnecting all power-related cables both externally and internally, there was no response. There are no lights on the motherboard, nor is the power supply fan operational. My system uses a Gigabyte G750H SMPS and an MSI 570x Tomahawk Wifi motherboard. Could you provide expert guidance on how to resolve this issue?”

Answer:

When faced with a situation where your computer refuses to start, and there are no signs of power such as motherboard lights or fan activity, it can be quite concerning. However, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue.

Step 1: Power Supply Check

Firstly, ensure that your power source is active. Check other devices on the same power outlet to confirm that the issue is not with the power source itself.

Step 2: Internal Connections

Next, you’ve mentioned that you have reconnected all power-related cables. It’s crucial to ensure that these connections are not only secure but also correctly placed. Double-check the 24-pin motherboard power connector and the 8-pin CPU power connector.

Step 3: External Devices

Disconnect all external devices except for the monitor, keyboard, and mouse. This includes removing USB devices, external drives, and any additional peripherals that are not necessary for booting the system.

Step 4: CMOS Reset

Perform a CMOS reset by locating the CMOS jumper on your motherboard or removing the CMOS battery for a few minutes before reinserting it. This will reset the BIOS settings to default, which can sometimes resolve boot issues.

Step 5: Component Check

With the power off, remove and reseat key components such as RAM sticks and graphics cards (if applicable). Check for any signs of damage or burn marks on the motherboard, which could indicate a component failure.

Step 6: Power Supply Tester

If available, use a power supply tester to check the functionality of your Gigabyte G750H SMPS. If the power supply is non-functional, it will need to be replaced.

Step 7: Minimal Boot

Attempt a minimal boot. This involves disconnecting all non-essential hardware, including drives and additional RAM sticks, leaving only the CPU, one stick of RAM, and the motherboard.

Step 8: Professional Help

If none of the above steps yield results, it may be time to seek professional assistance. A qualified technician can perform further diagnostics and repairs.

Remember, while it’s possible to troubleshoot many issues at home, if you’re uncomfortable or unsure about opening your PC, it’s always best to consult with a professional.

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By following these steps, you can systematically approach the problem and, with a bit of luck, bring your computer back to life. Remember, patience and careful attention to detail are your best tools in resolving hardware issues.