Computer Blowed Up (power supply?)

My computer just shut off last night and when I tried to turn it back on some sparks and smoke came out the back by the power supply. I have a spare power supply, But should I check something before I put it in? I looked inside and don't see any burn marks or anything..

Thanks
Rockit

 

If it were me, I'd at least fuse the power line before energizing the new PS. Fuses are cheap, power supplys aren't quite so. If it's already fused, change the value and type so that it is a fast-blo type and the amperage is equal to the ohms law value based on 80% of the PS rating.

In-line fuseholders and line cords are cheap if you want to make your own cord with fuse in-line for test purposes. A 2 amp fast-blo fuse works well for most purposes and will save you from smoking the new unit.

 

Maybe check the capacitors on the mobo for swelling or leaking etc. Also look closely at the voltage regulators as well for signs of heating. if the power supply blew up then was it caused by a short circuit on the mobo or did a compnnent fail within the power supply. Personally I would not use a cheap supply in a computer...get the best you can afford.

 

Computer power supplies are generally "short-circuit proof" because of built in overcurrent limiting and will not normally be damaged by a motherboard fault. Keeping this in mind, testing a new powersupply on a blown mb should not damage the new ps. Also, testing a new powersupply on a box with a blown powersupply may just fix your problem. To me, I would have no problem trying a new ps.

Good Luck
Top Dog