How Do I Test the Power Supply in My Computer?

Figure 1: Power supply in computer.
(Go to Okmarts and pick the Power Supply you need)

Testing a Power Supply is an important step when troubleshooting many issues, most obviously when your computer is having trouble starting. However, a failing power supply can often be at the root of problems you might not expect, like random lockups, spontaneous reboots, and even some serious error messages.
Ask any computer repair professional and they will probably tell you that the power supply is the most common piece of hardware to fail in a computer. The power supply is very often the first thing to fail as a computer ages.

1. How to Test the Power Supply in Your Computer

You can test it yourself manually using a multimeter or you can purchase a power supply tester to perform an automatic PSU test.Both methods are equally effective, so which one you choose is completely up to you.

Here's some more information on how to test your power supply with each of these methods and some help deciding which way is best for you.

1.1 Method 1: Test a Power Supply Manually With a Multimeter

Figure 2: Test it with a multimeter.

Assuming you have a multimeter and screwdriver, you can test your power supply right now following the directions above. If you don't own a multimeter, you can usually find a basic one at any major retailer for around $30.

Advantage: Requires only a screwdriver and multimeter.

Disadvantage: 1.It's manual. 2.Testing can be dangerous if you're not very, very careful.

1.2 Method 2: Test a Power Supply Using a Power Supply Tester

A power supply tester lets you stay a bit more removed from the electricity than with a multimeter test. Since they were invented because manual tests are manual and introduce human error, the results of a PSU test with a power supply tester unit is more conclusive.

Advantage: 1.It’s automatic. 2.It’s safer.

Disadvantage: You'll need to buy the power supply tester.

2. Note

Figure 3: Take great care when testing a power supply.

1.Take great care when testing a power supply, especially if you've chosen to test it manually. Both methods above involve working with a high voltage power supply while it's plugged in. If you're not extremely careful you could electrocute yourself and/or damage your computer. Testing a power supply is a common troubleshooting step and can be done safely if you exercise common sense and follow directions exactly. Just be careful when doing so.

2.Do not open a power supply's cover under any circumstances! The image on this page is for illustration purposes only, not as a direct example of testing a PSU!

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