Computer won't start with new power supply.

ShieldAndSpear · Dec 17, 2015

I know this is probably posted a lot, but the chances of finding the thread with the same combination of parts is slim to none. It's a pretty simple situation really, I bought a standard ATX 500w power supply to replace a Dell 255w psu. I had to buy an adapter so it would plug into the 20+4 pin "micro pwr" slot, but everything else fit just fine. However when I power it up, all I get is a high-pitched whine from the psu. Nothing else happens.

basroil · Dec 17, 2015

Sounds like PSU failure, either from improperly installed cables or a PSU that just doesn't work with your system. You'll need to state full specs for both to know though.

ShieldAndSpear · Dec 17, 2015

Well the psu was only 10 bucks from Amazon, that did throw a red flag in my eyes but there was nothing I could find to show that it was scrap. It even still smelled like a factory when I took off the shrink wrap. As for not working with my system, I had another thread on here before I bought it asking what compatibility issues I need to watch out for and was told they're pretty universal. The plugs are plugged in identically to the way the previous psu was, except for the adapter changing the standard ATX 20+4 into a 20+4 mini. Do you really think it could just be simply defective? I've been trying to upgrade my computer for a month now and these delays are so frustrating. Let me know the specs you need and I'll do my best to answer, I'm only just getting into custom pc's.

basroil · Dec 17, 2015

10 bucks for 500W is basically saying it's fake. Demand a refund and get a decent tier 1 or even tier 2 PSU. You can usually find something like the Corsair CX500 for ~30 after rebates, and plenty of options under $50.

As for plugs being universal, absolutely not. They are standard, yes, but it's not like you can put a whole bunch of PCIe plugs into a 24pin motherboard connector, and more importantly, you must make sure you don't put PCIe power plugs into an EPS connector (very similar looks, but it will short out the PSU)

pete_101 · Dec 17, 2015

Your PSU is as important as any other component in your computer and has the potential to damage other components should it fail, never go cheap when it comes to buying a PSU. As above, get a good PSU (the Corsair CX aren't considered good) and make sure not to plug the 8 pin PCIe power lead to anywhere on the motherboard, it's purely for expansion cards like the graphics card.

ShieldAndSpear · Dec 17, 2015

Yeah I only plugged in what was plugged in on the previous psu. Here's the ad for the one we're talking about: http://www.amazon.com/Standard-ATX-Power-Supply-500W/dp/B00JVZERO0

basroil · Dec 17, 2015

ShieldAndSpear :

That's absolutely not a valid purchase. Return as defective and buy a real power supply from one of these companies:
Seasonic
FSP
SuperFlower
EVGA
Corsair
Be Quiet
XFX
Antec
Cooler Master
Fractal Design
Silverstone
Rosewill
Thermaltake

Dark Lord of Tech · Dec 17, 2015

Look for XFX 550w. , they are OEM sized and will fit if you have a Dell Micro Tower.

5.5" x 5.9" x 3.4"

You will still need the motherboard adapter.

ShieldAndSpear · Dec 17, 2015

Just swapped back to my old psu and thank god my computer started up like nothing changed... I was getting pretty convinced that my impatience and greed had destroyed it... So how do I test to see if this bulk 500w works or not?

Dark Lord of Tech · Dec 17, 2015

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ezk9OA7aKOE
Don't run it this could be the outcome.

basroil · Dec 17, 2015

ShieldAndSpear :

You don't. It doesn't work. Just return the thing and report the seller.

ShieldAndSpear · Dec 17, 2015

Yea totally right then... I guess I got lucky my system is undamaged. I just jumped at the offer because I figured it was a great deal and I've been so eager to upgrade my system. I never contemplated that some companies don't care about selling you bombs just to make a profit. Let's just be thankful I learned my lesson and it only cost me 10 bucks. Now I have to debate whether or not I can afford a better one and when. Thanks guys.

Dark Lord of Tech · Dec 17, 2015

Last place to skimp on is the PSU , protect your components with good reliable power.

ShieldAndSpear · Dec 17, 2015

I found a private dealer that will sell me a 480w for $25, but the brand isn't on that list that was posted so I'm nervous... He's also offering a 700w for $80. Anybody have input?

Dark Lord of Tech · Dec 17, 2015

For that price just buy a CX series supply , not some unbranded one.

ShieldAndSpear · Dec 17, 2015

The brand is logisys, and the reason I was considering it was because I can get it tonight. Did I mention my impatience? Lol. It's the only place I could find still selling parts this late.

Dark Lord of Tech · Dec 17, 2015

Logisys are very very very poor quality , dangerous to use.

ShieldAndSpear · Dec 17, 2015

The 700w one is from thermal take though, but I really don't think I need that much power.

Dark Lord of Tech · Dec 17, 2015

Most Thermaltakes are poor quality and 700w is more than likely overkill.

ShieldAndSpear · Dec 17, 2015

Alrighty then I guess I'll just wait until the stores open tomorrow and I'll get something name-brand.

basroil · Dec 17, 2015

ShieldAndSpear :

NEVER, NEVER buy from a "private dealer". Just go to newegg, get http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139027&cm_re=500w_psu-_-17-139-027-_-Product , and send in the rebate. You'll have exactly what you need for only $30

ShieldAndSpear · Dec 17, 2015

I'm too impatient to wait 4-7 days, and too greedy to pay $27 for next-day shipping. I'll just shop some local parts stores tomorrow morning. Thanks everybody.

basroil · Dec 17, 2015

ShieldAndSpear :

It'll still be cheaper to pay next day shipping than buy at a store. In fact, if you live in California or NJ (or close to NJ, like lower NY and east PA), you can usually pay for the standard shipping and it'll arrive in two days.

You have a working PSU already, a few days "wait" is NOT a wait.

ShieldAndSpear · Dec 24, 2015

Glad I never closed the thread... Got a Corsair 500w psu now, still won't power my computer. Instead of a high pitched squeal, there's a small ticking sound inside the psu and it sounds almost like static. Shall we commence the troubleshooting?

ShieldAndSpear · Dec 24, 2015

Just noticed something else, all the color coded cables match perfectly with the colors on the old psu, except for the 24 pin cable.almost none of the colors match between the two power supplies. The closest thing to a match is if the +4 section was on the other side, but even then it's not a perfect match.

Computer won't start with new power supply.

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