Computer turned off then back on again

d3moliti0n

d3moliti0n

d3moliti0n

Associate
Joined
11 Aug 2007
Posts
1,666
About 5 minutes ago my computer just suddenly turned off completely, during which I heard what sounded like a 'popping' noise. Then, after about ten seconds, it proceeded to boot up again, yet during this I could smell a 'burning' kind of smell. Immediately I turned off the computer again and checked the components inside to see where the smell was coming from but I couldn't pinpoint it as it was only there for a few seconds and then it vanished, and I can no longer smell it now.

I was thinking a power supply issue, but the fact that the computer is actually still fully working (as I'm on it now typing this), I don't really know where to start looking for what just happened and whether it's actually safe to be using the computer considering the 'popping' noise and the burning smell. Can anyone make any suggestions as to what they think may have happened and where to start looking with regards to troubleshooting the problem? Thanks
 
Could be anything really but I suspect a Cap in the PSU. Can you try putting the system under load and see what happens? What is your system specs? If it falls over again then perhaps try another GPU and/or onboard GPU if possible.
 
My system spec is:

- Core i5 2500k running at default speed (3.30GHz)
- Gigabyte P67A-UD4 P67 S1155 motherboard
- 4GB Corsair XMS3 PC3-12800 C9 memory
- GTX 260 896MB, 216 core GPU
- BeQuiet Pure Power L7 530 watt PSU
- 1x 1TB SATA 2 HDD

I haven't tried any tests or anything on it, I had it switched on again after this 'popping/ burning smell' incident for about 15-20 mins before deciding it's probably best to turn it off as I don't want to damage any other components, theres too much money there to risk it to be honest.

My question is, should I go about replacing anything straight away eg. the PSU, as thats what I'm thinking it might be, or should I try and do more investigation into the problem?
 
Last edited:
Anyone else have any advice regarding this? If I replace the PSU, would you say it's then safe for me to use the computer again without anything else getting damaged?
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom