The first step you want to take before opening the computer up, is check all your outlets and outside wires connecting to the computer. Make sure that there's no damage to the power cord or that the fuse did not break on the wall socket.
If everything seems to be alright then follow the next few steps. WARNING: Taking your pc apart runs the risk of damaging or further damaging your computer. Please be advised that you are doing this at your own risk. I cannot be held accountable if you screw it up =)
1. Peripheral Problems
OK, first remove ALL plugs that are going into the computer. This includes, keyboard, mouse, USB peripherals, ethernet, power cord. Next plug in ONLY the keyboard, mouse, monitor cord, and power cord to your computer. Plug the power cord into the wall socket and hit the Power Button. Observe if any of the lights flicker or if you hear any of the fans come on. If it starts up fine, then one of your peripherals is causing problems with booting. If not then we'll have to take further measures to diagnose the PC.
2. Internals
Lay your computer on it's side (typically left side up). Again, remove all wires on the back of the computer. Using a philips head screwdriver, remove the screws that are typically on the back side of the computer holding your left panel together. Since most computers have different types of latches, you will have to figure out how yours opens up.
A typical motherboard looks like this:
What you want to do is make sure that the sticks of memory are not loose. Try pressing gently on the 3d card (downward towards the board) to make sure there is proper contact. Plug in only the power cord at this point and try to press the Power Button. Make sure your hand isn't touching anything inside the PC! Again, make sure to observe if anything tries to power up, even the slightest bit of movement means that power is trying to reach the motherboard.
IF AT THIS POINT THE COMPUTER WILL NOT START UP:
1. If no lights come on the fans do not try to rev up, then you could have a power supply issue.
2. If you see lights or fan behavior then your motherboard could be damaged.
3. A computer can still power up (without booting to Windows) even if your CPU is damaged so if someone recommends you buy a CPU right away, don't believe them until you fully rule out that it's not anything else that's causing the problems.
4. If your computer starts up but will not boot, it could be numerous things causing it and requires another set of diagnostics.
5. You may want to start considering more advanced technical support at this time. Either consult with a pc technician or review my limited repair service page for further information.
The next step usually (not always) involves removing the motherboard out to diagnose it for problems. Since these articles are geared towards beginner-intermediate level computer users, I will advise that you do not try this step by yourself.
Note: There are many advanced ways to fix a computer but these articles are intended for novice computer users. If you find any mistakes to any of my articles, please let me know through the Contact Form. I hope you have enjoyed/learned something. Thank you for visiting the site.
