Desktop POST Hardware System: incorrect power sequence. One regulated rail or enable signal appears at the wrong time.

The distinguishing clue

Fans or lights start but the board never completes initialisation.

Checks before an assessment

Record the exact POST light, beep or code and the motherboard model. Check the monitor input externally; do not treat a diagnostic light as proof that a named part is defective.

Stop point: Repeated part swapping with power connected can damage components.

Workshop confirmation and repair

Device-level check: Record codes and test minimum known-good hardware in a fixed order.

Targeted check: Measure the startup sequence against service information. If confirmed: Repair the regulator, enable or controller stage causing the sequence error.

Repair boundary: Repair the confirmed memory, graphics, processor, firmware or board stage.

Related cause to rule out

When current draw is abnormal and protection may stop startup, also consider Desktop POST Hardware System: shorted board rail before choosing a repair.

Checks after the work

After repair or replacement, check cold boot, diagnostic indicators, full detection, restart and sleep.

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