PSU switch on back and occasional loud sound

spirits247 · 16 Sep 2012 at 21:13

I use the switch on the back of my PSU (Enermax Modu87+ 600W) to turn my gaming PC off from standby as I tend to only use it a few times a week.

Every now and again, when I switch the power back on via the rear switch, I hear a loud electrical "arcing" sound for a split second, which is a little like a popping capacitor or clap sound, but without any kind of burning smell or ill affect.

Doesn't always happen, but it's been enough for me to just leave the PC on standby rather than flipping the switch all the time.

Anyone else experienced this from a PSU? It's a little unnerving to say the least!

sadbuttrue · 16 Sep 2012 at 21:14

My HX650 started doing that. A month later it gave off a burning smell. I had it replaced just to be sure.

Mei · 16 Sep 2012 at 21:16

not sure why you dont shut it down normally
id just stop doing that^^

sadbuttrue · 16 Sep 2012 at 21:20

Wouldn't help tbh. The bang will occur when switching on from wall or PSU switch.

spirits247 · 16 Sep 2012 at 21:30

I'll just leave it powered up on standby then, for the few pence a month it costs me. Better make sure my smoke detectors and surge protectors are all working fine!

Mei · 16 Sep 2012 at 21:34

new cable with a new fuse in it shouldnt be overlooked
not one you found in a skip lol

R.C.Anderson · 17 Sep 2012 at 01:14

It'll be arcing within the switch. Due to the slow speed the terminals switch within the switch, arcing can occur when the terminals are close, but not quite touching. If done enough, this can damage the switch (as each arc heats the terminals up a lot, and can melt small portions of them (like welding))

I wouldn't worry about it too much tbh, and if you are, just try to switch the switch nice & quickly.

I don't bother with it, as the power draw when the PC is turned off is negligible anyway, it's not worth the effort to turn it off there every time I use it (and I use it every day)