Computers powers on for split second, then nothing. (until graphics card is removed)

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Creitz91

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Dec 8, 2014
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I have seen similar posts about this, but nothing quite explaining my particular situation. Usually I have no issues powering on, the only time it happens is when I leave the power transformer on that the PC is plugged in to overnight (American living in UK), but if I dont have it on and I go to flip it on (the transformer) first thing in the morning, the PC turns on fine. I don't think the transformer is causing issues itself although I can't be certain. The PC will give a brief sign of light, the fans and LEDs flip on for a split second, and if you press the button again, nothing. The only way I found to fix it is to unplug the 24 pin connector, either unplug the power cables from the GPU or pull it out completely (which has been the recent case), then plug the 24 pin back in and it powers on just fine, then I can plug the GPU back in and it works as it should. From then on, I can turn it off and it will power up normally, and restart normally.

Hardware is as follows:

Motherboard:
Gigabyte GB-970A-D3P

Processor:
AMD FX6300 black edition

Hard Drives:
random 500gb HD
3x Intel 730 240GB series SSD in RAID 0

Graphics card:
Gigabyte GTX970 G1 gaming edition

PSU:
BFG 650W
 
Solution
RaDiKaL_
Sounds to me that the PSU is accumulating static, turning the power source off releases the accumulated static allowing the system to properly function (same goes when unplugging the 24-pin connector and the GPU effect points to the static occurring in the 12V+ rail).

Also, how old is that PSU? BFG company died years ago so I guess it has it's good years on it, add to it the fact that it delivers exactly 28A@12V+ rail which is the minimum amount needed by your GTX970 and that could explain your issue, you're pushing that old PSU to it's limits.

I'd suggest to get a new PSU if budget allows it, it could fail on you any day and take with it other components in your pc.
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InvalidError

InvalidError

Titan
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May 18, 2007
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If everything works fine when the transformer is cold, then my guess would be excessive voltage drop (core + windings) during the turn-on inrush when the transformer is warm. You would need a multimeter with fast min/max function or an oscilloscope to verity that though. I would expect the running voltage to be on the low side when under load if that is your problem.

Your other option is to simply flip the 115V/230V selector switch to the 230V position, get the proper IEC cable for your location and forgo the transformer altogether.
 
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RaDiKaL_

RaDiKaL_

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Apr 17, 2006
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Sounds to me that the PSU is accumulating static, turning the power source off releases the accumulated static allowing the system to properly function (same goes when unplugging the 24-pin connector and the GPU effect points to the static occurring in the 12V+ rail).

Also, how old is that PSU? BFG company died years ago so I guess it has it's good years on it, add to it the fact that it delivers exactly 28A@12V+ rail which is the minimum amount needed by your GTX970 and that could explain your issue, you're pushing that old PSU to it's limits.

I'd suggest to get a new PSU if budget allows it, it could fail on you any day and take with it other components in your pc.
 
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Solution
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rhysiam

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Mar 24, 2013
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Check the specs on your PSU, almost all PSUs will accept 100-240V as their input voltage. If so, ditch that transformer and just acquire use a power adapter or acquire a standard PSU -> UK style plug.

That would eliminate the transformer and ensure you're getting nice clean power... which is important.

I'm nervous about your PSU too. A 970 and Intel SSD, you obviously like nice hardware. Why not invest in a decent powersupply which is perhaps the most important part of your rig in terms of stability on longevity.
 
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InvalidError

InvalidError

Titan
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Before you plug anything in, triple-check to make absolutely certain the manual input voltage selection is set to 230V.

If you plug it into 230V while the switch is still on 115V, the PSU will most likely blow up within seconds - over-voltage without current limiting may make the input caps explode if a fuse or breaker does not blow first.
 
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Creitz91

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Dec 8, 2014
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So yes, the PSU WAS dual voltage, it had a switch that I KNEW ABOUT that had to be flipped. But since I'm a moron I wasn't thinking clearly and what do I do? Forget to flip it haha, so it released the magic smoke. I got a new one this morning, and I'm not too upset since I needed a new one with more SATA connectors anyway.

I have it plugged right in to 220 UK voltage now, booted up just fine. I'm going to leave it plugged in when I am at work tonight and I will let you know whether or not the problem persists. Then we can say it was either the PSU or the transformer. Now if I can keep my head on straight long enough to make it through the day without blowing more stuff up, itll be a good day.
 
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Creitz91

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Dec 8, 2014
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Indeed, problem solved! Weather or not it was the fault of the transformer or the PSU, but turned it on right after work today while being plugged straight in to the wall for hours. Even if it wasn't the PCU, plugging it in a crappy transformer can't be good, and also I did get the BFG used for free from a friend, so who knew how many hours were on it. ...Plus I needed more SATA connectors anyway. I replaced it with a EVO Labs Chronus modular 650W. Was 40 pounds and itll definitely do for now. Thanks all for the help!
 
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