Issue 10.13
If I see a number of computers with the same problem, it is a good bet that many more people are probably experiencing the same thing. When that happens, I am impressed to write an article on it.
Recently, I have had a number of computers that seem to have the same symptoms. The programs work erratically or fail to work. The Internet will work one day and then not the next. Then it seems to work okay the next day. Sometimes the computer will not start one day and then it will work fairly well the next. If you have these type of troubles, it may be that your desktop power supply is failing (laptops are usually not affected in the same way).
The desktop power supply is a box that sits inside your computer case. The external power cord plugs into it and it, in turn, sends power to the motherboard, hard drive, and dvd player as well as powering the video, main processor, usb ports and other items through the motherboard. If the power supply fails, the computer will simply not turn on. What is confusing is when the power supply is only working part of the way so it seems like you are getting power, but the power is not working the way the computer needs.
In modern computers, the power supply sends and receives DC (Direct Current) power through different wires to the different parts of the computer. It sends these in voltages of 12 Volts, 5 Volts and 3.3 volts, depending on what it connects to. If these voltages are off by more than about 0.2 volts, the computer will not work correctly. If the voltage fluctuates too much, it can even damage other components.
One thing you can do to check is to see if the fan inside the power supply box is spinning quickly and blowing air. If it is not or if the air is hot, there is probably trouble. If the fan seems to be working fine, there can still be voltage problems. Most good computer techs have a power supply tester that can tell you if yours is within the tolerances the computer needs to work correctly. If not, the power supply should be replaced. Most of them can be purchased and installed from $50-$100, but there are a few exceptions that cost somewhat more.
This is worth checking because replacing a power supply is a lot less expensive than replacing the whole computer and if that is the problem, you can usually get months or years more out of your computer as well as being able to retrieve and use your programs and documents. If you suspect this is the problem, ask your professional to check it for you. You may save significant money and save your files – and remember, always back up anything important to you.
Shaun McCausland has worked in the computer industry for over 30 years, 20 years of it locally with Bits ‘N’ Bytes and Musicomp and currently does in-home and on-site computer consultation, service, training and repair. If you have questions you can reach him at 435-668-7118 or through his website at www.bitsnbytescomputers.com.