overheating

[Mike Kallies]

>>     Why not just replace the power supply?  On an old computer, this could
>> be quite cheap.
>>
> The answer is simple: I have no idea where I could find a replacement. The
> size of it, etc.
>
> I will reply Anthony later.

I assume you've checked for dust and vacuumed the computer?

You should really replace the PSU if the fan has failed and you don't
feel comfortable workign around line-level voltages.  Overheating
power supplies can burn out iwith sparks and smoke.  Zero air flow in
the power supply is bad.  It's possible that the PSU is overheating
internally and failing to provide power within spec to the
motherboard, leading to the motherboard shutting down.  This can lead
to permanent damage.

A lazy trick might be to add a case-fan to the outside of the power
supply...  Attach it with plastic ties or bungees or something.  Make
sure it blows out of the case.  I don't recommend this if you care
about your computer.

Another lazy trick is to not bother with a matching shape and size of
PSU, just grab any PSU of the era with long enough ATX wires and a
high enough wattage rating.  Remove the old PSU, sit the new one on
top of the box, tie a knot in the wires, use a plastic tie to tie it
to the case (so that if it falls, it doesn't pull on the motherboard),
then tape the PSU to the box without blocking any vents.

If the case is a standard case, then the new PSU might even fit and
the whole thing is a moot point.

Good luck, and don't forget to back up your data :-)


-Mike
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