PSU squealing when PC is turned off!"

[Slinkie]

Hi Folks,

I have a gaming PC power by one of OCUKs branded power supplies (although bought from else where). My PC has been working fine for a couple of months now (i5 @ 4Ghz with a 5850 etc).

Recently however when I turn my PC of it starts making a little squeal. The only way to stop this noise is by flicking the switch on the back of the PSU.

Does anyone know why this would be happening or what I can do to stop it?

Edit: Please do not turn this thread into bickering about cheap PSU's vs expensive ones. I don't buy into that and have never had a problem with cheaper supplies.

 

[Mozno1]

Sounds like your PSU is leaking current (making components squeel) which isnt good (get this a lot on PSU type units on motor drive units on large automation). Leaking current is a sure root to component failure and ofcourse a nice little rise on your electricity bill.

 

[Engram]

The noise will be coming from the capacitors in the power supply. I'm not sure that you can do anything to fix this. You certainly don't want to be dismantling PSUs and playing with the inards.

Leave it for a few weeks and see what happens with the noise. If it doesn't go away you may need a new PSU. (Make sure you buy a decent branded unit too! They tend to be better made).

 

[matt_fsr]

Yep, I've had this before on a PSU ~4 years old or so.

Unless you're an electrician, the safest and easiest thing to do is ditch it and get a new PSU. Or get a refund if its under 12 months old.