If the fan spins up and you hear the familiar whir, the basic switching mechanism is working. Testing your power supply is a fundamental step in maintaining a reliable and safe computing or electrical system.
Desktop Power Supply Safety Tips: Essential Precautions and Best Practices
If the fan does not move, the supply is likely dead or receiving insufficient input power. If you smell burning plastic or notice discoloration on the circuit board, the unit is likely dead and requires immediate replacement.
The Paperclip Test (Active Testing) The paperclip test is a popular method for checking if a power supply turns on and initiates power delivery without loading it with a full circuit. Check that all power cables are securely seated in the connectors and that there are no bent or missing pins.
Desktop Power Supply Safety Tips: Essential Precautions Before Testing
A failing power unit can cause unexpected shutdowns, data loss, and even damage to other components. To protect yourself, always disconnect the AC power cable from the wall outlet before opening the case or touching any internal wires.
More About How to test my power supply
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