If your computer won’t turn on, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to try and diagnose and fix the problem. Knowing some basics about how your computer works can help you determine what’s causing the issue. Here are a few steps that can help you determine if the problem is simply a minor one or if you need to seek professional help.
1. Check the Power Source & Cables – Is the power cord firmly plugged in? If there are no visible signs of damage to the power cord, check the outlet by plugging in a lamp or another device to make sure it’s properly functioning. Also, check the back of the computer for any loose connections.
2. Try a Hard Reboot – If the power source and cables appear to be working fine, try doing a hard reboot by unplugging the power cord from the wall as well as the back of the computer and leaving it unplugged for a few minutes. Then, plug the cord back in and see if the computer turns on.
3. Inspect the Inside of Your Computer – If nothing happens when you try to turn on the computer, consider opening up the case, making sure that all the components are securely connected. Ensure that the CPU fan is plugged in and running, and look for any other loose or disconnected wires. Make sure that the memory modules and graphics cards are firmly installed in the motherboard slots and there are no visible signs of damage or corrosion.
4. Try Resetting the BIOS/CMOS – If everything appears to be connected properly and you still can’t get your computer to turn on, try resetting the BIOS/CMOS. This can usually be done by locating a small battery on the motherboard and removing it for several minutes, then replacing it and rebooting the computer.
5. Diagnose the Problem with a System Test – If all the above steps fail, you may want to perform a system test. This can usually be done by booting up the computer while pressing a certain key combination. For most computers, this is F8 or F10 before the Windows loading screen. From this menu, you can access diagnostic testing tools that can help you pinpoint the problem.
6. Seek Professional Help – If the above steps don’t help, you may need to seek professional help. Taking your computer to a reputable repair shop can ensure that the problem is fixed quickly and correctly.
With these simple troubleshooting steps, you can hopefully diagnose and fix the issue with your computer. It’s always best to seek professional help when your computer won’t turn on, as attempting to fix the issue yourself could potentially cause more damage and result in much more expensive repair costs.