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PSU loud buzzing sound

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  • Components
Last response: in Components
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March 10, 2014 5:47:33 AM

So, in an attempt to quiet my system down, I replaced the case, the GPU and the CPU cooler.
I then noticed this buzzing sound, after investigating I found out it originated from the PSU.
The PSU in question is a 3 years old Corsair GS 700 and after further internet investigation I found out that this is not an uncommon problem at all, especially with the Corsair series.
This buzzing sound has now reached the level of it being by far the loudest component in my pc and it is constant no matter if I game or have it sit idle.

So, since this PSU has some years on it's back, is there cause for concern, or would my nerves be the only ones to gain something out of a change of PSU.

My specs are

I7 920 @ 4GHZ
6 gb ram
MSI r9 290
Corsair GS 700

I would probably switch it anyway, but since I might throw in another 290 if AMD get's their act together, And I don't want to buy a 750 watt one in vain if I still need a bulkier one later on, for the crossfire.

Many thanks for your time!

More about : psu loud buzzing sound

March 10, 2014 5:54:37 AM

If it's a fan hitting one of the sides, you may be able to fix it (don't ask me how). But most likely you have coil whine. You're gonna have to get a replacement I'm afraid.
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March 10, 2014 5:55:36 AM

I forgot to mention that I confirmed it's not the fan.
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March 10, 2014 5:55:49 AM

New PSU should work.
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March 10, 2014 5:58:04 AM

it might a a faulty psu fan.make sure is dust free. also make sure it isnt overheating.! for crossfirng two 290 you will need at least a quality 850w one. the 700gs wont suffice.
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March 10, 2014 6:04:46 AM

The PSU is completely dust free and it's as cool as it can be. Would you guys say it's safe to run another year or so, or would you replace it ASAP?
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March 10, 2014 6:09:02 AM

Probably could do with being replaced but with no rush. Depends if the buzzing noise annoys you that much
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March 10, 2014 6:13:05 AM

Get a new PSU. Seriously don't open it up and start fiddling around. PSU's have capacitors in them that will hold large charges for months. Think taser on steroids. I know it sucks, b/c if it is three years old it is probably out of warranty. PSU's are not serviceable! If you can deal with the noise deal but do not open it up and start playing around.
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March 10, 2014 6:15:43 AM

well, if isnt overhearing then lt should be ok i gess. try reading the voltages through bios preferalbly to see if they are within range! especially of the 12v rail +/- 5%
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March 10, 2014 6:39:05 AM

The voltage readings from bios seem to be okay.

3.3v 3,296
5v 5,070
12v 12.137

So this means I'm not in immediate danger?
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March 10, 2014 10:09:00 AM

we dont know for sure. wierd noises are a sign of a dying psu.! try also reading the voltages through hw monitor while playing a game or under stress test to see if they are flactuating! and inspect it a bit further under load.also return to stock settings and see if has an impact. finally remove the gpu and post and see if the sound changes
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March 10, 2014 11:32:58 PM

According to hw monitor the min/max voltages were

3.3v 3,280 - 3,328v
5v 4,872-4,944
12v 11,654-11,765

While running kombustor I noticed the 3,3 v and 5 v rails were fluctuating slightly and the 12v rail was at a constant 11,654 v.

Setting the CPU to stock and removing the GPU made no difference.

I also tried disabling various intel power saving features that sometimes seem to make the PSU buzz, but the sound remained unchanged.
Switching to a different power outlet didn't change it either.
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Best solution

March 11, 2014 5:20:53 AM

as i recall corsair gs has 3 years warranty so an rma isnt possible anymore i guess! better aim for a new one to be sure, since the noises emerged after the cpu-gpu upgrade! i woudnt risk my new hardware being harmed!
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March 11, 2014 12:43:08 PM

Alright then, thanks for your time!

I went ahead and ordered a Power Flower 650w 80plus gold, this one seems to have gotten some outstanding reviews.
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March 11, 2014 1:00:13 PM

Never heard of power flower.
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March 11, 2014 1:07:48 PM

manez said:
Alright then, thanks for your time!

I went ahead and ordered a Power Flower 650w 80plus gold, this one seems to have gotten some outstanding reviews.


do you meen super flower? that exists and its good
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March 12, 2014 12:27:23 AM

Haha, yup, I meant Super Flower!
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!