Computer not powering on? Here are some methods to try!

Computer not powering on? Here are some methods to try!

Computers can fail to power on for a variety of reasons: a failed power supply,  a short on the mother board (or the computer thinking there’s a short when there isn’t), a bad power cable, or something as simple as your cat accidentally flipping the switch on the back.

Here are some troubleshooting methods to try at home before seeking outside help!

Desktops

If you smell something burning or see smoke or sparks, turn the computer off immediately! Not only is that a fire hazard, but you run the risk of damaging other components, costing you more money in the long run,

• Make sure every thing is plugged in! Check the cable in the back and make sure it is pushed in all the way. Check that the other end is properly pushed into the outlet. If you’re using a surge protector (you should!) or a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) make sure it is on and plugged in properly.
• Check to see if the switch on the back of the power supply is set correctly. It should be flipped to the bar ( | ) and not the circle ( O ).
• Unplug the computer and flip the switch on the power supply to the O position. Press the power button a few times to drain the left over charge. After waiting a few seconds, plug it back in and flip the switch on the power supply to the | position. Then wait a few more seconds before trying to turn on the computer.
• Try unplugging all external devices from USB ports. If the computer turns on after this, there may be a damaged USB port or device that is causing a short.

Laptops

If you notice the bottom or the top is bulging a bit where the battery sits, do not try to power it on! The battery has gone bad and could cause an accident if it’s being used.

• Check to make sure the charger fits snuggly into the port on the laptop and the outlet. Most laptops and chargers have light on them to indicate if its receiving power. Double check the charger has the recommended voltage and amps to power the laptop.
• Let your laptop sit and charge for a few hours. Even if you haven’t used it in a while the battery will still discharge over time. Sometime it takes a few hours for the battery to respond to the charger.
• Try a different outlet or surge protector.
• Try replacing the charger. If that doesn’t work it could be a bad battery. While laptop batteries are not as easy to replace as they used to be they are still replaceable.

Still can’t get your device to turn on? Feel free to bring it to our store or set up a housecall and we’ll take a look!