Computer turning itself off immediatly coming on

Hi guys, I am entirely new to working with computers like this but if a fix could save some money then I want to try it.

I bought this computer premade from pcworld about 4 years ago and it has been running happily, a few problems with overheating but those have been solved as they came. Yesterday the computer had been running around 6 hours when the moniter disconnected and a few seconds later the computer itself switched off. Since then the computer is almost entirely lifeless apart from when I switch the power switch at the back off and on again and try to start where the computer starts for around half a second then goes off again.

I've had a read around and the consensus seems to be that the problem is the power supply, however i'm reluctant to splash out on a new one without knowing so is there any way to check if that is the problem? Also is there anything I should know before I attempt to remove this one/install a new one?

Many thanks

PS: I know it is a 200w power supply, if any other specs would help post where to find them and i'll look it up.

 

Welcome to Major Geeks!

The problem you're describing sounds like a bad power supply (esp. since your old one was only 200w). Replacing it should solve the problem.

If you have a standard tower case, a standard size (ATX) power supply should work. If it's a smaller PC, it may require a different size. Measure the dimensions of the current power supply to make sure you get the right size.

You don't have to go crazy on price, but look for one with decent user reviews on Newegg or Amazon. Also be sure it has enough IDE and SATA connections for the number and type of drives you have installed.

Hope this helps.

 

If you can, borrow a spare psu from a friend and fit it, and try that out. If that works, you may need a new psu. If that doesn't work and you have the same problem the issue is likely to be something else. (I believe that psu performance does get worse over the years)

Also you should do your best to ensure that the inside of your pc is free from dust, because this creates thermal problems, which might lead to pc turning off, though these sort of problems tend to start off infrequent and get worse with the passage of time. There are many tutorial videos on the internet (manufacturers websites, youtube) about dust removal practises if you can get access to a pc. There are many free temperature reporting programs about if you can get your pc started.

Dumb_Question
25.August.2013
Compaq Presario S5160UK DT261A (Celeron 2.7 GHz 1.5GB RAM) - MSI MS6577 v2.1- XP/SP3