Could a faulty CPU fan prevent a system from starting up?

[masterc]

I am setting up a comp. for my kid. I am using some parts from my old p2 system but have bought a new mobo and ram and a used athlon 1700xp cpu with HSF.
I have everything installed, but can't get the rig to initialize. I was wondering if the cpu fan is faulty, would it prevent the system from starting up? The other thing maybe the PSU, which is from the old p2 system may not be adequate, could that be a problem??
Or I got a bum CPU (only spent $20 on it)...

 

[Uncle Bob]

some mobo's won't power up if there isn't a cpu fan connected (check the mobo manual if it's new) but I'd also be suspicious of the CPU in this case

 

[chowmein]

yes replace power/fan

 

[newbiepcuser]

If the heatsink/fan isn't mounted properly, it can cause overheating which could cause the system to shut down. Recheck this. Also if you can look at the cpu for "burnt" marks on the core.

If you suspect the powersupply, unplug the unnecessary devices such as hard drive, cd-rom, floppy etc. Just boot up with the RAM, video card and cpu. See if you get any response.

When you state "initilized", do you mean it doesn't power on at all, or does it power up and shutsdown?


You might want to double check your wiring from the case to motherboard to verify everything is correct if it does not power up. Reseed the ram too just to be safe.

 

[LTC8K6]

Most CPU fans send an RPM signal to the mobo these days. If the mobo does not get that signal, or if the signal is bad, the board will not power up. Usually what you get is a very brief power up, and an immediate shutdown.

Make sure you have the CPU fan plugged into the proper header.