Usb shorted out

[Guest]

hey all,

today i somehow shorted out my usb ports... i have a usb extension cable and the outside where the two connect are metal. that metal touched the base of my lamp and sparked and shut off my computer... now it won't start.

my question is did i fry the motherboard or the power supply?

i know i need to buy a new one, just don't want to buy both..

Thanks all

Chuck

 

[Ubrales]

Sorry to hear about this mishap! Start out by checking out the PSU. Some PSU manufacturers (Corsair) have a simple "paper clip" method of testing the PSU. Here is the link applicable to Corsair PSUs - http://www.corsair.com/cinema/movie.aspx?id=1358543

By analyzing your situation, the PSU supplies power to your motherboard which in turn powers up your components connected to your motherboard. Therefore, there is a greater likelihood that the motherboard would get damaged before the PSU gets damaged.

In any case, it is worthwhile to check the PSU first because the test is simple to perform. After this checks out ok, look into reset switches installed primarily for protecting the system in instances similar to this.

Good luck!