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Solving Power Problems
Common causes and solutions for power problems are listed in the following table.
Table C-2 Solving Power Problems
Power supply shuts down intermittently.
Cause Solution
Voltage selector switch on rear of computer chassis (some
models) not switched to correct line voltage (115V or 230V).
Select the proper AC voltage using the selector switch.
Power supply will not turn on because of internal power
supply fault.
Contact an authorized service provider to replace the power
supply.
Computer powered off automatically.
Cause Solution
Processor thermal protection activated:
A fan may be blocked or not turning.
OR
The heatsink is not properly attached to the processor.
1. Ensure that the computer air vents are not blocked and
the processor cooling fan is running.
2. Open hood, press power button, and see if the
processor fan spins. If the processor fan is not spinning,
make sure the fan's cable is plugged onto the system
board header.
3. If fan is plugged in, but is not spinning, then replace the
heatsink/fan assembly.
4. Contact an authorized reseller or service provider.
Power failure (power supply is overloaded). 1. Check that the voltage selector, located on the rear of
the power supply (some models), is set to the
appropriate voltage. Proper voltage setting depends on
your region.
2. Open the hood and ensure the power supply cable is
seated into the connector on the system board.
3. Check if a device is causing the problem by removing
ALL attached devices (such as hard drives or optical
drives, and expansion cards). Power on the system. If
the system enters the POST, then power off and
replace one device at a time and repeat this procedure
until failure occurs. Replace the device that is causing
the failure. Continue adding devices one at a time to
ensure all devices are functioning properly.
4. Replace the power supply.
5. Replace the system board.
Solving Power Problems 147