Dell Studio XPS 435mt motherboard power issue
I have a Dell Studio XPS 435mt that is not booting. I get a quick amber flash on the power button and the case fans spin up for just a second then that's it. Power supply has a steady green light on the outside. Motherboard has a steady amber light. I pulled power and held down power button for 20 seconds, same result. I removed all six 1GB memory modules and the ATI video card, same result. I removed the power connections to the HDD and DVD, same result. I pulled the CMOS for 30 seconds than reseated. Attached power cable and the power button was quick flashing amber. I pressed the power button and the power button turned white and the fans spun up. I removed power and replaced one memory module than powered back up. Same as before, single amber flash then nothing.
Could this be the power supply, motherboard, CMOS, video card??!? I am thinking the motherboard needs replacing, but i'd like some input before I plunk down the cash for it. Could it be the PS?
Could this be the power supply, motherboard, CMOS, video card??!? I am thinking the motherboard needs replacing, but i'd like some input before I plunk down the cash for it. Could it be the PS?
sjklein42
If you have not already tried another (known-good) power supply, you should do so. Those symptoms can definitely be caused by a weak P/S. The P/S may even test good on a tester but fail under load.
Also examine the motherboard for swollen capacitors:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capacitor_plague
DELL had a class action suit against them for this problem.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capacitor_plague
DELL had a class action suit against them for this problem.
ASKER
no swollen capacitors. I will try and locate a similar power supply. Do I need to find one with a P6 connector? I have a bunch with P4 connectors...
SOLUTION
membership
This solution is only available to members.
To access this solution, you must be a member of Experts Exchange.
ASKER CERTIFIED SOLUTION
membership
This solution is only available to members.
To access this solution, you must be a member of Experts Exchange.
if not -time to replace the power supply; but be aware that a bad PS can damage the mobo also !!
ASKER
just ordered new power supply. If replacing the power supply doesn't resolve the issue then I will order a new motherboard.
that lloks like the way to proceed
ASKER
Just tried a new power supply and got the same results. Must be the motherboard. Waiting on the delivery of the motherboard.
ok - post results
ASKER
replaced motherboard and PC is now operational. I wish every power supply had a self-test function. Thanks for all the help!
you can wish a lot; but that makes not it exists
anyhow -it should make it a penny more expensive; and that's why they don't do it
tx for feedback
anyhow -it should make it a penny more expensive; and that's why they don't do it
tx for feedback