Computer won't start.................sometimes

[Sectick]

Title pretty much explains my problem, let me give you a quick rundown of the issues.

My computer was working fine until I came home from college. I have checked all connections, and everything looks to be in order. When I press the power button on my computer my fans and lights flash on for about a half second and the computer is dead.

If I toggle my power strip on and off and do the samething it repeats. The only way I can get my computer to start is if I press and hold the power button for about 10 seconds until it starts. THEN I have to kill the power to the computer and turn it back on. Usually my computer starts normally after that. (I must admit my computer starting procedure gives it uniqueness)

At first I thought it was a power supply issue, but my LEDs on my motherboard is always on. On a side note my computer seems to just turn itself off about once a day, but again it runs for hours at a time with no problems.

Any ideas on what could be wrong?

 

[robisbell]

possible power surge damage.

 

[Sectick]

What should I be doing to try and fix this problem?

 

[Old Hippie]

At first I thought it was a power supply issue, but my LEDs on my motherboard is always on.

Doesn't mean the entire PS is working correctly. I've seen failing PSs do many strange things. In your case, that's what I'd be trying first.

Good Luck!

 

[robisbell]

try replacing the PSU with one of equal or greater wattage.

 

[Sectick]

***UPDATE***

O.k. this morning when I woke up I figured that I would try something.

When I am at college I never kill the power to my computer with the surge protector/outlet strip. However, when I am home I always kill the power at night because it lights up my room enought to annoy me.

When I woke up for work I turned on my powerstrip, but did nothing else and left. When I got home I hit power and my computer just started right up.

Any new thoughts?

 

[montag451]

Try plugging the computer straight into the power outlet a few times - see if that makes a difference.
If yes, try a new surge protector.

 

[robisbell]

hmm, also, check to make sure the wirings okay in the outlet too. I'd recommend a good SP or UPS, starting around $50