Symptoms
- No standby LED lit on the motherboard when plugged in
- Power button press produces no fan spin, no lights, nothing
- Power supply switch is on and the outlet is confirmed working
- Problem started suddenly or right after building/moving the PC
Likely causes
- Common24-pin or CPU power connector not fully seatedEven one connector slightly loose can prevent all power delivery.
- CommonPower supply itself has failedThis produces exactly this kind of total, silent non-response.
- PossibleShort circuit from a stray screw, standoff, or component touching the caseMotherboards can refuse to power on as a safety measure when shorted.
- PossibleFront panel power switch wiring issueIf the switch itself isn't connecting properly, pressing it does nothing.
- PossibleFailed motherboardLess common, but possible, especially after a power surge.
What to do
- Confirm the power supply's switch is on and try a different wall outlet.
- Reseat the 24-pin and CPU power connectors fully.
- Test the front panel power switch by briefly touching a screwdriver across the correct two motherboard pins (per the manual) to bypass the case switch.
- Remove the motherboard from the case and test it on an anti-static surface (or the box it came in) with minimal components to rule out a case short.
- Test the power supply in isolation using the paperclip method to confirm it's actually outputting power.
- If the board shows zero signs of life outside the case with a known-good PSU, it has likely failed.
Tools and parts
- Screwdriver
- Anti-static surface
When to call a pro
If testing outside the case with a known-good power supply still shows no life, the motherboard has likely failed and should be evaluated or replaced by a professional.
Safety
Use caution
Always unplug the PC from the wall before working inside the case, and be careful using a screwdriver near the front panel pins to avoid touching anything else on the board.