What are the signs of a weak computer power source? How to fix it?

The power supply is not usually considered a high priority in the components of a PC. But the power supply is the first important factor that determines the stable operation of the system and its lifespan. Therefore, it is necessary to pay more attention to its health than ever. Let's find out the signs of a weak computer power supply through the following article.

Signs of weak computer power supply

The power supply is too old.

 The power supply is the component with the longest lifespan among all types, and can continuously use a power supply when other components are upgraded more. That is why many users often use very old power supplies.

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The power supply has a long life but users also need to replace it to avoid wear and tear over time to ensure the machine's performance is maximized. Capacitors and other components can have problems during use, changes in current can cause short circuits or even destroy some of the most important components, which costs the most money.

Therefore, users should pay attention to the quality of the power supply of their PC . Normally, a power supply should be used for about 5 years, or longer if recommended by the manufacturer.

Green screen

Blue screen appears when Windows computer encounters a serious error and cannot operate safely. There are many causes of blue screen on computer, statistics show up to more than 260 errors that can occur, of which at least 5 factors are directly related to hardware:

1. 0x00000080: NMI_HARDWARE_FAILURE
2. 0x00000122: WHEA_INTERNAL_ERROR
3. 0x00000124: WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERROR
4. 0x00000127: PAGE_NOT_ZERO
5. 0x0000012B: FAULTY_HARDWARE_CORRUPTED_PAGE

If you see these errors, the cause is from the computer's components operating abnormally. If the components have been replaced, the cause is likely from the PC's power supply, which is one of the signs of a weak computer power supply . And this is the time to check and replace the power supply for your computer.

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Lightning sound

The optimal criterion is that the computer operates as quietly as possible, if there is a sound when the computer is operating, it is a sign that a certain component has a problem.

When a buzzing or electric noise appears in the PC, it is necessary to disassemble the machine to clean and check all parts to see if the buzzing is still there. This is for professionals, otherwise it is recommended to bring the whole machine to a reputable computer repair shop for timely inspection and maintenance.

When there is an electric sparking sound, this is likely a sign that the computer's power source is weak, damaged and it's time to replace it with a new one.

Power supply is unstable.

One of the signs that your computer's power supply is weak and needs to be replaced is when the power from the power source is unstable. A fluctuating PC power supply can cause LED lights to flicker or can cause the PC to shut down involuntarily or restart itself.

At this time, you need to take the machine to a reputable warranty facility for maintenance to check and replace the computer power supply if necessary.

Other signs of a weak computer power supply

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In addition to the causes that signal the need to replace the PC power source mentioned above, signs of a weak computer power source will have some additional signs as follows:

1. Computer won't start but case fan is still spinning
2. Other components are broken.
3. Computers that run for a long time often freeze/shut down (usually check the power source and see if it's hot and check the power fan)
4. Power cord is hot/burning (replace with a better quality power cord)
5. The machine sometimes starts and sometimes doesn't (maybe due to lack of voltage, or the 20pin/24pin cluster is not in tight contact)
6. Shutdown not possible (or automatic restart after shutdown)
7. Burned 4-wire power cord for CPU due to loose contact
8. HDD makes noise, sometimes detects and sometimes doesn't
9. CD cannot boot because the power source does not provide enough power to the CD.
10. HDD test shows it is heavy because the power source does not provide enough power to the HDD
11. When shaken, the machine automatically resets (you can try shaking the 24-pin wire bundle). There are subjective and objective causes of shaking such as: The machine running for a long time causes heat and the CPU fan running strongly causes the case to vibrate.
12. The machine won't start but the male ICH is hot.
13. Error message from VGA
14. The computer running on Windows will be restarted.
15. The machine runs and loses signal or restarts from time to time.
16. After turning on the power, the fan runs for a few seconds and then stops.
17. RAM test found error

Above are the basic signs of weak computer power , from easy to rare, that TipsMake has compiled for readers to grasp. Hopefully, the article has helped users choose and use their computers effectively and with the best quality of use.

To own a suitable computer system, build a PC according to your preferences and at a reasonable price, contact TipsMake today to receive the best advice and support.

Kareem Winters

Update 16 January 2025