In this guide we'll go over the general troubleshooting steps to go through if you have a newly built PC that won't power on/boot/POST. Whether you're a first-time builder or experienced, it's not uncommon to run into some snags or miss something minor in your build. This guide should cover all the basics.
I found the solution to my MOB not posting! In step #5, my CPU power cable was not installed. Although I had asked the question with tech support, "Does the MOB supply power to the CPU?", which wasn't a discriptive enough question; that individual could not figure the problem out. My CPU fans were working (separately connected to power on the MOB ASUS B550-F) and I sent him four pictures as well; in the end the tech assumed the CPU power cable was installed. But that is okay because I am 71 yrs old and having fun with my very first build process. When I am asked what am I doing in my retierment , I say "well I am "ALMOSTAGAMER", which leaves most people with a blank stare.
I am glad to hear this article helped! Enjoy your PC!
I found this to be very helpful. Could not get my son's build to POST and found the solution here. I am 52, but had the same problem as the guy above me!
I am glad to hear this article helped you out!
If the wires on your PSU are properly color coded you can test if it turns on by taking a paperclip and shorting the green wire to any black wire on the main 24 pin connector. Obviously if it's a newer "gaming" PSU where the cables coming out of it are all black this isn't going to work.
You can also buy a PSU tester fairly cheaply which will tell you exactly what is functioning/not functioning. https://www.microcenter.com/product/508305/kingwin-kpst-02-power-supply-tester Note that MC carriers a more expensive digital one but this is all you really need. Also note that the -5 volt line will remain unlit on PSU models made within the last 15-20 years or so because it's no longer used (I was unaware of the change once and threw out a few old ones because I thought they were bad.)
If it's a new PSU make sure it's set to 115v for the US market and not 220 for the countries that use that as a standard instead (though usually this wont be an issue.) Also you can try another IEC power cable. https://www.microcenter.com/product/511832/micro-connectors-6-ft-computer-power-cord-red though I don't think I've ever seen one go bad.
I also test by process of elimination. Start with the PSU, then the PSU connected to the motherboard with only a CPU and RAM installed. If all that works then connect whatever other peripherals to it until it fails.
I would also have mentioned the BIOS beep codes that can indicate errors as well. https://www.computerhope.com/beep.htm Note if your motherboard does not have a PC speaker attached to it this also will not work. If not it should have four pins on the front header section where you can connect one. For example, in the graphic above step 11, the four pins color coded orange would be for a PC speaker. Only the first and last pins are used however.
Oh, finally I guess make sure your house has power and test the outlets too (this seems obvious to most but I've seen it happen.) You'll want to test the outlets to make sure they're properly grounded anyway.
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