The power supply unit (PSU) is a crucial component of your PC that supplies power to all the other components. If your PC is experiencing issues, it is essential to check the PSU to ensure that it is functioning correctly. In this article, we’ll show you how to test the power supply unit (PSU) in your PC.
Step 1: Unplug the PC
The first step is to unplug your PC from the power source to avoid electrical shocks.
Step 2: Open the Case
Next, you need to open the case of your PC. The process for opening a PC case varies depending on the model, but you can typically find instructions online or in the manual that came with your PC.
Step 3: Locate the PSU
Once you have opened the case, you need to locate the PSU. It is typically located at the top or bottom of the case, at the back of the computer. It is connected to the power cord that runs from the wall socket to the back of the PC.
Step 4: Disconnect the PSU
After locating the PSU, you need to disconnect it from the rest of the components. There are usually several cables connecting the PSU to other components in your PC, including the motherboard, hard drive, and graphics card. You will need to disconnect all of these cables.
Step 5: Paper Clip Test
The paper clip test is a simple method to check if the PSU is working correctly. Here’s how to do it:
- Straighten a paper clip.
- Find the 24-pin motherboard connector on the PSU. This is the largest connector and is typically located on the top left corner of the PSU.
- Insert one end of the paper clip into the green wire pin on the 24-pin connector.
- Insert the other end of the paper clip into any black wire pin on the same connector.
- Plug in the power cord and turn on the PSU.
- If the PSU fan starts spinning, it means that the PSU is functioning correctly.
- If the fan doesn’t start spinning, it means that the PSU is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Step 6: Use a Multimeter
A multimeter is a device that can measure electrical voltage, current, and resistance. Here’s how to use a multimeter to test the PSU:
- Set the multimeter to DC voltage mode.
- Connect the black probe to any black wire on the 24-pin connector and the red probe to the yellow wire.
- Turn on the PSU.
- Check the multimeter reading. It should be between 11.4 and 12.6 volts.
- Repeat the process for the other colored wires on the 24-pin connector.
- If any of the readings are outside the recommended range, it means that the PSU is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Step 7: Reconnect the PSU
Once you have confirmed that the PSU is functioning correctly, you can reconnect it to the rest of the components in your PC. Reconnect all the cables that you disconnected earlier.
Testing the power supply unit (PSU) in your PC is a simple process that can help you diagnose any issues that you might be experiencing. The paper clip test and the use of a multimeter are two effective methods for checking the PSU. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your PC is receiving the power it needs to function correctly.