computer issue

I built a computer for my mother-in law three years ago. recently the computer has been acting up. I press the button and nothing happens, it doesnt turn on right away, but like six to seven minutes later it comes on. I know it sounds pretty strange but, for a computer to turn on six to seven minutes later after pressing the button. the computer is intel 775, operating with windows xp. i know its a couple of years old but it shouldnt do that. Ive opened the case, and i think ive narrowed it the Power supply, but just wanted to see, if anybody else has any suggestions.

Thank you

 

Greetings, PC Picard...

Odd that a power supply would show those symptoms: PSUs are usually all-or-nothing devices.

Try a couple of different routes. Hardware-wise: make sure no unnecessary peripherals are connected (especially printers and USB devices), physically disconnect from the internet. If there is more than one hard drive ensure that only the root drive is connected. If more than one RAM module is installed try one at a time to see if you can get a change in symptoms.

Software-wise, try booting into your machine's setup (BIOS) to see if everything's kosher there - if so, then try booting into Safe Mode (tap <F8> at startup). What's your operating system version, Service Pack # and architecture (32-bit or 64-bit)?

 

Just had an off-the-wall thought: if there's a six or seven minute delay between the pushing of the power button and any activity at all, could this be a power button issue? Shot in the dark - stranger things have happened...

 

Yes There is six to seven minute delay, from pushing the button to start up.
Does the power button go like that, thats strange.

 

Yes, it is strange - but buttons do go bad or get dirty. I'd explore that as a last resort, and only if there is absolutely no activity when the button is pressed.

Try the other stuff first, let us know the results.