Powerup problem

[Tonedeaf]

I have an older PIII 450 (the kids computer) that sometimes won't turn on at all, or if it does, is shuts itself down part way through the boot process.

I suspect the problem could either be the On/off switch that may need replacement or the power supply. Do you think I'm on the right track, or could it be something completely different.

Thanks for any assistance.

 

[firehawk]

I doubt whether it is the power switch since it is probably a momentary switch. I would say it is either the power supply or maybe the processor needs to be reseated.

 

[Akash]

if its ATX, maybe you need to swap the cable going from switch to board around.
usually this is not the case but hey, some machines always have to be awkward.

otherwise, it sounds like either PSU or cards/motherboard that are not seated properly... touching the case/metal that sort.

rebuild it maybe?

 

[westy1]

I would suggest you check out your power supply, if you have a test meter. Black wire ground
Red wire +5V DC
Yellow wire +12V DC

It sounds like a power problem to me.