Techie question

[cheekbones3]

Hello all! We've got a computer that's just started switching itself off for no apparent reason - it seems like there's something wrong with the power supply as far as I can tell. Is this a common symptom of a worn-out PSU? And if not, what else might it be? (I'm sure it's not the external power supply equipment, as the monitor doesn't go off.

Comments

[cheekbones3.livejournal.com]

I thought it could have been a virus, but it's an instant shutdown with multiple on/offs afterwards until it settles again.

I assume PSU then - are they easy to replace?

[dryriser.livejournal.com]

Depends on the age of the machine. If it's a standard ATX unit, then you're looking at about 15 quid, from memory. Trouble is, of course, it could also be the motherboard. I'd suggest seeing if you can borrow one first... (Unfortunately, I don't have a spare)

[dryriser.livejournal.com]

And as for ease of replacement - about 4 screws and 4 or 5 wires usually, so not too difficult.

[cheekbones3.livejournal.com]

Hmm - this comp's about six years old now - might be worth getting a new one. There's a laptop that can be used in the interim.