Computer Will Not Turn On

Few things can induce both a sense of panic and extreme frustrations as pressing the power button on your computer just for it to refuse to turn on. The causes for the problem could be countless with varying degrees of complexity. The process of eliminating them one by one can't be rushed. However, doing so in a structured manner can help users identify the issue just a bit faster allowing them to plan an appropriate course of action.

Check the power supply

If the computer doesn't display any signs of life when you hit the power button, then the cause is more than likely associated with the power supply. Start by plugging the power cord into another electric socket. If no changes occur, then you should take a look at the power supply unit of the system. Open your PC's box and check if all the cables of the PSU (Power Supply Unit) are properly connected. Otherwise, you may need to change the failing PSU altogether.

Laptop users should first try to plug in their device and wait for a couple of hours for the battery to charge. Afterward, unplug it, and try to start the laptop again. If it is still refusing to work, try a different charger, as the current one might be malfunctioning.

While it may sound like a long shot, try replacing the CMOS (or clock) battery. It is the power source that supplies the motherboard with enough energy to store the BIOS settings. Without it, the PC will not be able to run.

Check the monitor

If the PC system turns on and you can hear the fans spinning but see nothing and the monitor remains dark, it may be an issue with the display itself. Start by inspecting the cables connecting the monitor to the PC and replace them if needed. Also, if available, try connecting a different monitor to see if anything changes.

The same symptoms also could be caused by the system staying in sleep mode and refusing to wake up. Try pressing the power button for 5 seconds and waiting for the system to shut down completely. Then start the PC normally.

Disconnect external hardware

If the problem is a recent occurrence, and during the same time frame you have introduced new external hardware to the system, it is more than likely the cause. Turn the PC off and disconnect everything except the essential parts such as the keyboard, mouse and monitor. If the system starts normally, you may need to reconnect the devices one by one to see which is the faulty one.

Check the hardware components

Experienced users might want to take a look at the individual hardware components of their PCs' systems for malfunctions. Switch the RAM, the GPU, and make sure that the power supply unit meets the energy requirements of the entire system. A weak PSU with inadequate capacity could be causing the problem. If you are not confident enough to tinker inside the PC case on your own, consider taking it to a repair shop.