Computer won't boot, Motherboard has power

GregDio

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Aug 4, 2015
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I have a Dell Vostro 410, which I've owned since new. Over the last couple of years, I had trouble booting computer after it was shut down completely, so I left on to avoid the issue. A recent power outage turned computer off and now I cannot restart.

The PSU has power, green led light on back of case and the motherboard has an amber light which is lit. I have tried moving the lead wire coming from the case switch, removed battery to clear CMOS, with no success.

Any suggestions on how to track this down? I am thinking could be the case switch, PSU or motherboard.

I appreciate any help, TY
 

GregDio

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Aug 4, 2015
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I think I have an old case around with the newer connections. I'll give that a try.

Thank you and I will let you know.

 

GregDio

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Aug 4, 2015
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I could not find a spare computer with a 24 pin connector. Found a Youtube video on how to jump the PSU with a paper clip to start the PSU without being connected to the Motherboard. PSU started up fine, so I have narrowed down to Motherboard. I also tried to jump the Power Button connection on Motherboard, with nothing happening.

Found a few replacement Dell Vostro motherboards for about $30, so that is my next step.

Thanks for your suggestion.



 
Amber light on power button or motherboard - sign of motherboard death for Dell PCs.
It is possible to start PC again at times, by pushing this button, sometimes it works, try also disconnecting power from the wall and press power button for 20 sec to discharge electricity from PC, and then attempt to start, if unsuccessful - dead motherboard, sorry.
 

GregDio

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Aug 4, 2015
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I was able to find an never used OEM motherboard on eBay for a pretty good price. Swapped out the boards yesterday, same result. I have an old Dell Latitude that isn't being used and was lucky that it has the 24 pin connector but no sata connections. I took it out of the latitude, plugged it in and the Vostro fired right up, so I know its the PSU.

This motherboard always had the amber light on when connected to power, when my unit was new and with this never used board its that way. So I'm not sure what the previous poster is referring to. I'll sell my old mobo on ebay to recap some of my $ spent and pick up a new psu.

Thanks for your suggestions.

Greg