Power Supply - Really Thick White Smoke

PureJaz · 18 Oct 2021 at 20:09

Hi All,

Just turned my PC on and instantly there was a really thick white smoke.

Turned it off as quick as I could and unplugged (probably on like 5 seconds).

Anyone know what can cause this?

I have taken my PSU out and there was a puddle of liquid under it. My leading theory is the cat ****** on it though it must have been good aim... anyone have any other theories?

Also if so what are the chances all the other components are buggered? Ordering a new PSU today. But worried I will be saying bye to my 3080, 5950x, SSDs and so forth. A depressing day.

Thanks

Joxeon · 18 Oct 2021 at 20:45

Could be a blown capacitor.

What make of psu was it?

PureJaz · 18 Oct 2021 at 21:02

Thanks for the response.

It was an OCZ Zx 850w.

Could the blown capacitor explain the puddle of liquid? It is a little oily.

Joxeon · 18 Oct 2021 at 23:12

Yeah some caps contain electrolyte which is like a conductive oily substance so I'd say that was the most likely what is was under the PSU rather than anything the cat deposited.

The psu is a fairly old model and really should have been replaced when you upgraded especially with the power hungry 3080 but let's just hope it didn't take anything else with it.