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Question

Computer PSU/Motherboard Issues

Apr 5, 2018 3:12PM PDT

I built a comp. about 3-4 years ago (specs: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/yVvcnQ) that I never had performance issues from. A few months ago, the computer had turned off from sleep mode and would not turn on. No lights or fans. I moved it to different outlets and tried different cords and eventually it came back on with the original outlet and cord. Every few weeks since it would happen again and there was no consistent way for me to get it back on- just randomly will after I move it around and plug/unplug things. I got a PSU tester and it read fine.

Recently while running a game (again never have had issues with performance while gaming), it completely shut off and would not start. I tested the PSU and it didn't read as good, so I bought a new PSU. The new PSU tested good so I plugged it in. When trying to turn the computer on with the new PSU, fans and LEDs will flicker, but then stop. I took the new PSU out and went back to the old PSU and was able to get the computer started. Started up a game and the computer died again. I repeated the process of trying both PSUs and got the same result of the new one not starting it up, but the old one starting. I'm posting this while on the computer, but I'm afraid if I open any game or turn the computer off, I will have the issue again.

Does anyone have any thoughts about my issue? I'm thinking replacing my motherboard will work, but the inconsistencies with these PSUs is making me question that. Thanks for any help!

Discussion is locked

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Clarification Request
This sounds like our old friend
Apr 5, 2018 3:39PM PDT

It's a common problem I run into. Either an overtaxed PSU or motherboard standoffs are shorting the backside. Mind you it can work for years and then this.

I don't see PSU make, model of the new unit and the symptoms are correct for the old standoff issue. We pull the machine out of the case to test it with bare min parts and work our way back to a full PC. Checking standoffs again for any extras.

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New PSU
Apr 5, 2018 4:55PM PDT

My new PSU: EVGA - BQ 850W 80+ Bronze Certified Semi-Modular ATX Power Supply

With the new PSU installed, I did remove everything except the motherboard to try to test each part. But even at its most bare point, it would not do anything except flicker with the new PSU. This is why I thought replacing the motherboard would work, but the fact that I was able to put the old PSU back in after I did that piece by piece testing and got the computer to start confuses me.

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How old is this motherboard?
Apr 5, 2018 5:03PM PDT

Have you looked at the capacitors, particularly the ones near the CPU to see if any are leaking, or popped the tops on them? Also look on the flat Mosfets next to them and see if one or more have a burned spot on top.

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The EVGA looks great. Single rail, etc.
Apr 5, 2018 6:21PM PDT

I think it's time to build it with the bare min parts and no case. Start like we do with The Dead PC. You start with the least number of parts. This means the case is not used during testing till later.

Also, let's hear about your CAP inspection. Google BAD CAPS to see baddies.