Member Avatar for thedoppleganger

I built my own computer about 7 months ago and i come home and it shut off while i was gone. I go to turn it on and it wont boot. The power led comes on when i turn on the power supply but when i go to turn on the computer the fans spin for a second and then nothing. I hit the power button again and it does absolutly nothing but if i turn off the power and turn it back on the fans spin when i push power and turn off like they did before. I already tried the psu and i took it down to the barebones but still wont work. Any ideas?

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Dani AI

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Brief, repeatable attempts to start the system followed by an immediate shutdown usually mean the power subsystem is sensing a fault and protecting itself, or there is a short/power-circuit failure on the motherboard. 's PSU-swap suggestion is a correct first check; when that does not isolate the problem, a systematic elimination sequence helps identify whether the board, PSU, front-panel switch, or a short to the case is responsible.

Recommended diagnostic checklist:

  • Power off and unplug mains; work on a non-conductive surface.
  • Remove all nonessential devices and expansion cards; test with minimal parts (CPU, one stick of RAM, PSU, and GPU only if required).
  • Move the board outside the case (bench test) to rule out a standoff/case short and visually inspect for bulging caps or burn marks.
  • Confirm the 24-pin and 4/8-pin CPU power connectors are fully seated; reseat RAM and CPU and check socket/pin condition.
  • Bypass the front-panel switch by momentarily shorting the power pins on the front-panel header (only while unplugged until ready to test).
  • Reset CMOS with the battery removed for a minute or the clear-jumper.
  • Test the PSU: either use a known-good PSU or measure rails (3.3V/5V/12V and 5VSB) with a multimeter while attempting to power on; avoid long paperclip tests and follow safety precautions.
  • Use a POST speaker or diagnostic POST card to capture beep/POST codes if present.

If the PSU proves good under load but the bench-minimal board still fails, the motherboard power circuitry or an internal short is likely. At that point, document the tests and pursue RMA if under warranty, or replace the board (confirm socket/chipset/BIOS compatibility). Always observe ESD/mains safety: unplug before hardware changes and ground oneself.

Member Avatar for belikemike

Have you tried a different psu? Possible board problem.

Member Avatar for thedoppleganger

It turned out to be a dead motherboard

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