Replacing a Power Supply Unit (PSU) is a relatively straightforward
procedure to carry out and this article includes a few useful hints and
tips to help make the process as easy as possible, even for a novice.Safety Precautions
Even when a PSU is not plugged into the mains, the capacitors inside the unit can still hold a potentially lethal electrical charge so it is vital that you must never disassemble the case of a PSU or attempt to force any objects (e.g. a screwdriver) into gaps within the unit itself.
Required Equipment
To successfully complete the instructions contained within this article you will need the following; a small philips screwdriver, an anti-static wristband and access to a digital camera.
1) Unplug Computer & Remove Panel
The first thing that you need to do is to unplug the PC, position the PC on a steady surface and take off the side panel, giving you a clear view of the components inside the case. The main side panel can usually be removed once two thumbscrews at the back of the PC have been removed.
2) Photograph The Internal Layout Of The Computer
This is a great trick for any beginner because it will offer a point of reference which you can refer to when fitting the new PSU. Using the flash, take a clear photo of the inside of the computer ensuring that the position of wires, connectors and components can be clearly seen. It may be advisable to take several photos from different angles to ensure you have a good photographic reference.
3) Take Anti-static Precautions & Unplug PSU Connectors
The next stage is to unplug the connectors from the power supply and it is strongly recommended to wear an antistatic wristband to protect you computer from electrostatic discharge (ESD). You should be able to easily locate the PSU; it is the square box positioned at the top of the case with numerous wires protruding from the front of it.
You will notice that wires are bunched together into small groups which connect to various components within the PC. Slowly trace and follow each set of wires to their termination, where they will be connected to a particular component via a plastic connector of varying shapes and sizes. Unplug these terminal connector and repeat this process for every set of wires exiting from the PSU. Once this has been completed you will have now disconnected the PSU from all components within the PC.
4) Remove The PSU
Now that the PSU is disconnected from all other component within the PC it can be removed by unscrewing the four small screws located on the rear of the PC - there should be a screw corresponding to each corner of the unit. Once these screws have been removed you will now be able to remove the old PSU.
5) Fit Replacement PSU
The replacement PSU should have the exact physical dimensions of the original unit and all you will need to do is fit the unit into the case in the gap vacated by the previous PSU. Ensure it lines up with the four screw holes on the rear of the PC and then attach the new PSU into place using the screws removed in stage 4.
6) Connect PSU to Internal Components
Now that you have fitted the repacement PSU, the next stage is to connect all wires to their designated components in exactly the same way that the previous PSU was connected.
The wires on the replacement PSU should correspond to the wires on the older unit and there should be the same type and quantity of connectors present. The correct destination for each set of wires can be determined by matching the connector with the corresponding connection on each component inside you computer. If you have any difficulties with this stage then refer to the internal photographs taken in step 2 which can be used as a point of reference from which to begin connecting the PSU to the relevant components.
Once the PSU has been connected to all components, there may be everal small connectors which are unused - this is quite normal and should not be a cause for concern. Use cable ties or elastic bands to group together and neaten any leftover wires (this will also keep them out the way of other components).
7) Final PSU Check
Before you re-fit the side panel of your computer it is advisable to double-check and make sure all connections from the PSU are secure (the large connector entering the motherboard itself can be rather stiff and may need a firm push to ensure a decent connection). It is extremely important to check the voltage switch on the back of the PSU as these units can be configured to work on either 230 volts or 115 volts. Ensure it is set to the correct voltage setting for your power grid (consult the documentation of the PSU if you are unsure which voltage setting applies to you). Finally re-fit the side of the PC case, remembering to secure with thumbscrews.
8) Power On System
Attach the power lead to the mains and switch on your computer. Hopefully the system should start up as normal and begin loading your operating system. Ensure that all system devices are functioning properly (optical drives, Card Reader, system fans etc). If the system fails to power up correctly then unplug the PC from the mains, remove the side panel from the case again and check every single connection thoroughly - it is likely that you may have missed something (consult the photos and check every connector is in the correct place).
by : goarticles.com
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