Computer no longer comes on - you can do that

If your computer stops working, numerous components on the PC may be defective. We will show you how to correctly find, find and fix the error.

First aid: Computer no longer comes on

• Electricity: First check the power supply. Turn off the computer on the back of the case and disconnect the power cable. Then plug it back in and check whether there is any power coming from the socket.
• Start: If your computer is still on, but Windows is not loading, read on in the following practical tip. If you hear beeps at startup, check the table below to see what the BIOS sounds mean. This is the fastest way to find out which component is causing problems.
• Hardware: Disconnect the computer completely and screw it on. Look for obviously defective or blown components here. A strange smell can be an indication of this.
• Cables: Check all visible cable connections in the computer. Gently shake the plugs to check that they are seated.
• Mainboard: If nothing works anymore, it is usually due to a defect in the power supply or the mainboard. Check all capacitors on the mainboard. If a capacitor bulges slightly outwards or is visibly open, it must be replaced.

Computer no longer works: the most important sources of error

Note: The layman should not partially follow the instructions below. Behind the linked categories you will always find instructions for removing and installing the components.

• Processor: If the problem is with the processor, the BIOS emits a certain beep. In this case you can unscrew the cooler, remove the thermal grease and examine the CPU. Slight discoloration indicates an irreparable defect.
• Graphics card: There are also capacitors on the graphics card. Remove the graphics card, check the capacitors and reinstall the graphics card. If you don't see any picture at the start, the defect can also be in the monitor.
• Hard disk: HDD hard disks usually announce their death beforehand by loud operating noises. The modern SSD hard drives, on the other hand, die a silent death. The installation of another hard drive can clarify this.
• Memory: If there is a problem in memory, it can be easily identified. Just take out all the RAM bars and try to start the PC with just one RAM bar. If that doesn't work, use another one.

Computer no longer starts - what to do?

• If none of this helps, you can look for help online. To do this, document as precisely as possible what you know about what is happening.
• Did you have any problems in the last operation? Have you noticed any noise lately? Does the PC still start? If yes, what is shown?
• If you have specific answers to these questions, you can look for help in a forum. This is possible, for example, in the CHIP forum.

In the next practical tip you will find further help if Windows does not start.