Is the PSU broke ?

[Kevinsilhouette]

Hi My dad's PC recently went out so I went to take a look at It. Now he pretty clean with his PC but he not to tech savy when it comes to components. When I went to look at it I noticed there was a green Little light and it was flashing on and off. Does that mean the PSU is bad ? or did the motherboard fry.

If its the PSU may some one suggest me to a cheap one as his computer is nothing more than a surfing the web out dated XP pc.

Its a 2005 compaq.

PSU model is Bestec ATX-250 -12z Dev2. Any help would be obliged on upgrading it or if its not the case just why it might of gone out.

 

[TVeblen]

Is the flashing green light on the motherboard? Some OEM power supplies have a green indicator light on them too.

This could be as simple as replacing the CMOS battery on the motherboard. Or if you have a tester, you could check to see if it is giving the full voltage.

Otherwise I think you are correct: failed PS.
As for PS recommendations, it would be good to know the computer's specs. But as long as you get the proper connectors, any PS in the 300 to 500w variety from reputable manufacturers would do for a PC that isn't loaded down with power hungry devices. Sites like Antec have a calculator you can use.

 

[Kevinsilhouette]

Thanks. "Lights on the PSU" Luckily it was only the PSU. I disconnected the The 20 pin connector from the Mother Board And then Replugged in the Power and the light stayed on. Then the computer started! The only catch is the PSU will not retain power much like an alarm clock with out batteries once its unplugged it will not work again until you unplug the MOBO plug in power then plug the it back in.

As for a PSU I found some for about 25-30 bucks for a more wattage one then he currently has. Is there any thing I need to look for other then how many connectors he needs ?

 

[TVeblen]

With power supplies it is all about the amperage. For marketing purposes power supplies are listed according to the total wattage that could theoretically be produced under full load. But only the best (and most expensive) units come close to those theoretical maximums.

So you need to apply a little common sense when choosing one. Compare the specs on the units and look at the amperage available on the 3v, 5v, and 12v "lines". The higher the advertised amperage the better, as long as those figures are honest, which a reputable company will attempt to do.

But other than that just look at the number of units sold and the owner reviews on the on-line sites that sell them. Lots of sales and relatively few complaints equals a good bet.

 

[Kevinsilhouette]

Thanks a lot for the help I appreciate it =D