Computer Won't Switch On

[Paddington]

I have a computer from ABS Comp. that's about 1.5 years old, now out of warranty. It has ASUS A8N-E with AMD 64 3200. BIOS is up to date.

The computer has been a bit fussy from the start. Every once in a while (once a month or so), when I would push the power button, the computer would fail to turn on. However, by switching the power off in the back, coming back after a few hours, then turning the power on in the back, the computer would start normally.

Last week though, the computer seemed to have switched off for good. I turn the computer on, nothing happens. I switch the power off in the back, come back after a while, switch everything on again, nothing happens.

Does this seem like a power supply problem or a motherboard problem? I've solved numerous software and hardware problems before, but I've never had a computer that just wouldn't switch on. I'm not sure what to do short of ordering a bunch of new hardware.

 

[robisbell]

remove the power and reset connectors and try manually turning on the pc, usually done by contact the 2 power pins on the front panel connector, if it powers up easily, then you have a bad switch in the case.

 

[Paddington]

I took the computer in on Friday for a $85 diagnostic. Today, I find out that the power supply is fried and the motherboard is also fried. This will now cost an additional ~$160 to replace. Can't believe this happened. My computer was always plugged into a surge protector.

I've had 4 computers now: 1995 - Packard Bell, 1998 - Custom Made P2-400, 2003 - Dell, 2006 - ABS Comp. The only that ever worked right was the one I built myself.

 

[robisbell]

uhh, that does not sound right, I'd take it to another and get a 2nd opinion.

that's a bit pricey for replacing a motherboard and PSU, even with labor.

I guess you did not try my advice and just took the computer in?