computer startup problem

schemeboy · #1 January 5th, 2005, 07:50 PM

Hello,
I am trying to help a niece with her computer; it was working fine up until yesterday, now when she turns it on, the power light comes on and it starts booting up, then suddenly you would hear a click and the computer stops booting up, and the monitor would jump from on to standby (power off) and then everything stops.
Help please

hypnotizeminds · #2 January 5th, 2005, 07:52 PM

If possible, can you open the case and listen closely for where the "click" might be coming from.

It sounds as though you might have a power supply problem. Is the PC plugged into the wall or into a surge protector? Also, have you had any power issues or outages recently?

schemeboy · #3 January 6th, 2005, 03:50 AM

Hello I listened for the click, and it sounds like it is coming from the motherboard and monitor, the PC is plugged into the wall and there was no power outage recently, also I think I gave you some wrong info; whenever the problem occur the computer does not shut down as I thought, the power stays on, it is only the monitor that shuts down
thanks

**zipulrich** · #4 January 6th, 2005, 04:18 AM

Very possibly the flyback transformer. Don't try to fix it - you'll kill yourself. Instead, try the computer with another monitor - does it work OK that way?

hypnotizeminds · #5 January 6th, 2005, 06:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by schemeboy

I think I gave you some wrong info; whenever the problem occur the computer does not shut down as I thought, the power stays on, it is only the monitor that shuts down

Ah. That makes more sense. Check the connections first. Then, try another monitor if you have one available to you. Also, definitely do not try to fix or mess with anything while it is running. Be sure to power off and unplug the system before touching anything inside the case.

**zipulrich** · #6 January 6th, 2005, 07:02 AM

hypnotizeminds, do you realize what I'm suggesting? Do you know that a flyback transformer is not inside your computer? And that it can indeed kill you?

hypnotizeminds · #7 January 6th, 2005, 07:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by zipulrich

hypnotizeminds, do you realize what I'm suggesting? Do you know that a flyback transformer is not inside your computer? And that it can indeed kill you?

Yes of course, I probably should've put more thought into my phrasing, I posted my last message after yours reminded me that you must be careful when running a PC with an open case. My post was in no way related to yours, apologies for causing any misunderstanding.

schemeboy · #8 January 7th, 2005, 04:39 AM

Hello,
The problem is fixed. I remembered some advise given on this site some time before and I tried it: I changed the video card and now everything is working fine.
Thank you all for answering me and giving your help.

bAdWaYz · #9 January 7th, 2005, 10:06 AM

Since this person has fixed the issue I just wanted to post the fact that I think the term "flyback transformer" is so cool sounding. Don't know why but I really like the name hehe