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Question

Laptop goes off on start

Sep 1, 2016 10:13AM PDT

I am trying to repair a laptop. It goes off after 2 seconds of starting up. But it works perfectly when the screws are not on but it does also go off when I press it down without the screws on?

Discussion is locked

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Answer
That's a mechanical issue.
Sep 1, 2016 10:18AM PDT

You'll have to find what is shorting out when the screws are in. At worst it's a motherboard with a crack, at best you need to take it apart again and watch each step for issues.

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I'm thankful for your help
Sep 1, 2016 1:52PM PDT

I have took it apart several times checking for signs of what you just mentioned and I didn't find any. Your answer was completely brilliant. Is there anything more I could do?

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About all I can add
Sep 1, 2016 6:17PM PDT

Is that you as the seasoned tech might think about possible shorting areas and add some insulation in those areas. I've used paper and kapton tape over the years.

Here's hoping you can find it and it's not the motherboard.

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There's something more
Sep 1, 2016 10:09PM PDT

The laptop also turns off after say 2 seconds when I push the covers together even though the screws are not in

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That leads up to what I wrote earlier.
Sep 1, 2016 10:34PM PDT

At worst you are looking for a new motherboard. At best you find out what is shorting out. I know some folk lash out at such ideas but I understand. I've been in the repair business since before the PC.

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My appreciate your suggestions
Sep 2, 2016 12:17AM PDT

I'll follow your advice step by step and I'll let you know the outcome. Thank you.