Power Supply Advice

[txtrapper]

Dell PowerEdge 400 SC
Windows Xp

I unplugged my power supply cord from back of computer after I got to black shut down screen. It said computer will shut down in 5 seconds.

The reason I did this is because my computer would restart itself after shutdown on its own.

I thought by disconnecting power supply maybe the matter would clear up, but to my suprise now the compuer will not restart at all.

I called Dell Customer Support, the technician said to unplug power supply, then hold start button 5 seconds, then release button and plug power supply back in. Then hit start buttom, but nothing happened.

The technician said if the fan is not running I may have shorted my power supply. He even had me switch power cords to a different outlet, no go.

My question's are:

1) Is this something I should try to buy a power supply and accomplish this replacement on my own or take to computer shop?

2) Where is a reputable source to get the power supply other than Dell?

3) Is there a how-to published anywhere online for this procedure?

The power supply replacement is H2678 according to Dell rep. Prices range from $27 on ebay to $79 at some sites I searched at online.


Sorry for the long post, but I am a senior citizen and would like some advice on what to do next...I do have an old spare "slow" computer so I will be able to get online.


thanks,

TxTrapper
San Antonio, Tx

[pip22]

With Dell, many of the computer parts are custom made for them (not necessarily the PSU, but it's possible). That's one reason why keen upgraders stay away from branded machines. bearing that in mind, you could have problems if you choose to source your own parts that may not fit for one reason or another. If you stick with the part number you've given you should be okay, but I would give ebay a wide berth.

[txtrapper]

Thanks pip22 will keep that in mind, the correct part # is available. But from "1-5 wrenches" how difficult would this task be.

All I've done is installed RAM and a PCI adapter so far.

thanks,

txtrapper

[harry12]

txtrapper try taking said PSU to a computer fair and see if anyone bites - I suspect as pip22 has indicated - avoid ebay...your only joy will be Dell themselves - they do it for two reasons:
1) to make profit on spares
2) same as 1) above.
The technician was (trying)making sure the psu delivered a power-on reset to start the pc. However the (earlier problem)="restarting" might indicate a faulty switch which is (others correct me) is on the dc side of the PSU as you can reset the computer using the "shut-down" command.
However remember Dell is wanting to sell parts and fit them...