Desktop Motherboard Power System: shorted board rail. A capacitor or semiconductor pulls a supply toward ground.

The distinguishing clue

Current draw is abnormal and protection may stop startup.

Checks before an assessment

Describe no response, brief fan movement or repeated restarts separately. Do not open the PSU, bridge pins or reuse uncertain modular power cables.

Stop point: Power must be disconnected before moving cards or board connectors.

Workshop confirmation and repair

Device-level check: Compare a known power supply, inspect connectors and trace the board power sequence.

Targeted check: Isolate loads and locate the affected rail using controlled measurements. If confirmed: Replace the shorted component and verify resistance before power.

Repair boundary: Repair the confirmed connector, regulator, rail or downstream short.

Related cause to rule out

When fans or lights start but the board never completes initialisation, also consider Desktop Motherboard Power System: incorrect power sequence before choosing a repair.

Checks after the work

After repair or replacement, check cold start, processor load, graphics load, standby and shutdown.

For an AEPC repair assessment in East Auckland, provide the exact model and observed clue. Call 027 908 8880 before visiting the Burswood workshop.