Running a PSU "empty"

[botanist]

Hello!

I recently bought an Antec Sonata case supplied with a 380 W PSU.
Before ordering motherboard and other hardware to put in this case,
I wanted to check that the PSU works, so I plugged it in and turned
the switch on the backside from 0 to 1, but nothing happens. The PSU
fan isn't rotating. I've checked some molexes with a volt meter but no
voltage is indicated. So now I wonder:

Is there something wrong with my PSU, or is it only supposed to work
when connected to a motherboard?

My retailer isn't answering calls between the holidays so I hope
someone here on the forum can help me. Thanks in advance!

--
Botanist, newbie when it comes to building computers

 

[high]

Lol, wait until it's connected, it's the only way to test it....it doesn't just *work* when you flip the switch on the back.

 

[beatle]

Get a metal paperclip and bend it into a "U" so that one end fits in the green wire (there's only one) and one fits in a black wire (any one will do). You can then use the "hard" switch on the rear of the PSU to turn it on and off. This is a good way to test a PSU away from components and out of the case.

Oh, and welcome to the forums.

 

[botanist]

Thanks "high" and "beatle"! I've tried the tip with the paperclip
and it worked just fine. I feel so much better now.
So great to have kind, knowledgeable people to ask.

 

[Zepper]

Thing is, you shouldn't power up a switching PSU without a load, but a brief on-off shouldn't hurt. Here's hoping...
. There are testers you can buy for about $10. that provide a minimal load. www.svc.com carries a couple of 'em.
.bh.