There are few tech problems more frustrating than when you press the power button and your PC won’t turn on. A dead computer can be caused by a wide range of issues, from something as simple as a loose cable to a more serious hardware failure. Before you panic or call for expensive repairs, there are several basic troubleshooting steps you can take to diagnose and potentially fix the problem yourself.
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🔌 How to Check the Obvious First: Power and Cables
It may sound too simple, but the most common cause of a PC not turning on is a problem with the power supply. Your first step should always be to check the cables. Make sure the power cable is securely plugged into both the back of your computer and the wall outlet. If you’re using a power strip, make sure it is switched on and working. You can test the outlet by plugging in another device, like a lamp. Also, check the master power switch on the back of your desktop PC’s power supply unit (PSU); it’s easy to accidentally bump it into the off position.
🖥️ How to Troubleshoot Your Monitor and Display
Sometimes, the computer is actually turning on, but nothing is appearing on the screen, making you think it’s dead. Listen for the sound of fans spinning up or look for any indicator lights on the computer case. If you see or hear signs of life, the problem might be your monitor. Check that the monitor’s power cable is plugged in and that it is turned on. Also, ensure the video cable (like HDMI or DisplayPort) is securely connected to both the monitor and the correct port on your computer’s graphics card.
⚙️ What to Do If It’s a Hardware Issue
If you’ve checked all the external cables and the monitor and there are still no signs of life, the issue is likely an internal hardware component. The most common culprit in this scenario is a failed Power Supply Unit (PSU). Unfortunately, this is not something that can be easily fixed without replacing the part. Other potential causes could be a faulty motherboard or RAM. If you’re not comfortable opening your PC case and diagnosing internal components, this is the point where it’s best to seek help from a professional technician.
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“What To Do When Your PC Won’t Turn On.” Computer Active, no. 716, 13-26 Aug. 2025, p. 46.
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