"PC Won't Turn On, But Motherboard Light Is On/It's Plugged In"

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Written by

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Updated on April 19, 2024

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Why Won't My PC Turn On, But the Motherboard Light Is On/It's Plugged In?

One of the most frustrating experiences for a computer user is discovering that their PC won't turn on, despite being plugged in, or the motherboard light being on. This typically suggests an issue with the power supply, which can be a troublesome problem to resolve.

However, there are a few potential causes of this issue. In the following section, we'll provide some possible solutions to this problem. Attempt the following methods to resolve the error!

Finally, if none of these things work, you may need to contact a qualified technician for further diagnosis and repair.

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Fix 1: PC Won't Turn On, But Motherboard Light Is On

If your PC won't turn on, but the motherboard light is illuminated, there could be multiple reasons for this issue. One potential cause is that the power supply unit is not delivering sufficient power to the computer. Another possibility is an issue with the motherboard itself. It could also indicate a faulty component within the PC that requires replacement. A blown fuse can also contribute to this problem. Here, we provide some methods to inspect and successfully turn on your computer.

Upon reading, if you're uncertain about the issue, it's advisable to seek assistance from a professional. Their expertise will enable them to identify the problem and have your PC functioning smoothly in no time.

Method 1: Check the Power Button 1. Press and hold the power button for a few seconds. 2. If the device turns on, proceed to the next method. If not, continue with step 3. 3. Check if the power button is functioning properly by trying it on another device or using a different power source. 4. If the button doesn't work, you may need to replace it or seek professional assistance.

One possible reason why your PC won't turn on despite the motherboard light being on could be an issue with the power button on the computer case.

If you don't find any faulty connections or breaks in the main source, you might need to replace the power button. In either situation, it's generally advisable to consult a professional before proceeding, as working with electrical components can be hazardous.

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Method 2: Check the Screws on the Motherboard

If your PC fails to power on, but the motherboard light is illuminated, one possible explanation could be that you're using incorrect screws for the motherboard standoffs. To verify this, remove the motherboard from the case and attempt to power it on using a screwdriver. If it operates correctly, re-install it with the appropriate screws. After using the right screws, everything should function normally.

Check the screws on the motherboard

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Method 3. Check the Memories

Your PC might not turn on with the motherboard light on due to incompatible or defective RAM. If you've recently added new memory, remove it to check if that resolves the problem. If you have multiple memory modules, try removing all except one to see if that helps. Swap out the memory module with a different one to test its functionality. If none of these steps work, the issue could involve the power supply, motherboard, or another component. Attempt other methods from this article or consult a professional for further help.

Check Memory in Computer

Method 4: Check the CMOS Battery

A faulty CMOS battery could be the reason your PC won't turn on, yet the motherboard light is illuminated. The CMOS battery powers the BIOS chip, which is essential for booting up the computer. If the battery is aged or defective, it might not supply adequate power to the BIOS chip, resulting in the PC failing to start. Attempt to remove and reinsert the CMOS battery to see if that resolves the issue. If that doesn't help, replace the battery with a new one. By troubleshooting each of these possible problems, you should be able to restore your computer's functionality promptly.

Method 5: Check the IC Fuse

A blown fuse might also stop your computer from turning on correctly. Check the power supply unit (PSU) for any burning smells. If you detect a burning odor, it's probable that one or more of the PSU's internal parts have blown. You'll need to identify the damaged components and swap them out for new ones. Also, remove unneeded cables, like those from an unused CD-ROM drive. This approach is more challenging for those without computer expertise. You can take your computer to a specialized repair shop for testing.

Solution 2: My Computer Won't Turn On, But It's Plugged In

There are several reasons why a PC might not turn on even when it's plugged in. One reason could be that the power cord isn't properly connected to the PC or the electrical outlet. Another possibility is that the PC's power supply has malfunctioned. Occasionally, the PC won't switch on despite being plugged in due to a virus or malware infection. In such cases, running a virus scan and removing any malicious software from your system would be necessary. You might find a suitable solution in the following section. If you're uncertain about the issue, it's advisable to consult a computer technician who can diagnose and resolve the problem.

Method 1: Check the Cable

First, check the power cable; it might be loose or disconnected. Make sure the cable is securely plugged into both your PC and the electrical outlet. If it is, try unplugging and plugging it back in to see if that resolves the issue. If you have an extra power cable, using it could be helpful. If your PC still doesn't turn on, check if there's a switch on the power cord that might have been accidentally turned off. If the power cord appears to be fine, proceed to inspect the PC's power supply. If you're uncertain about how to do this, proceed to the next method.

Check the computer cable

Method 2: Check the Power Source

Unplug your computer and plug it directly into a functioning wall outlet. Ensure the power supply switch on the back is turned on. If the outlet is controlled by a light switch, ensure the switch is in the on position. If this doesn't resolve the issue, try plugging the PC into another outlet. If that doesn't work, inspect the power cord for any looseness or damage. As a last resort, you may need to replace the power supply.

Check the power

Method 3: Check Your Monitor

If the computer sounds like it's turning on but you don't see anything on the screen, check your monitor. Also make sure the cable connecting your monitor to your PC is securely connected, undamaged, and not faulty. If you can connect another computer to your monitor and get an image, the problem might be the cable, which needs replacing. If none of these remedies work, the issue could be with the computer itself, and you'll need to explore other solutions.

Connect your computer to a monitor

Method 4. Listen for the Beeps

When you first turn on your PC, you might hear a single beep. This is typically a sign that the computer is functioning properly. However, if you hear a prolonged tone or a sequence of beeps resembling Morse code, it could indicate an issue. Consult your PC's user manual or visit the manufacturer's website to understand the meaning behind the sounds. In some instances, you might be able to use your PC without any problems. Nevertheless, if the PC is not functioning correctly, it's advisable to seek assistance from a professional to prevent any potential further damage.

Method 5. Examine Internal Issues

Malfunctioning internal parts can lead to this issue. This could be a cracked or damaged motherboard, damaged charging circuits, a faulty graphics card, or software problems. If you recently opened your computer and touched any parts, static electricity might have caused damage. If you believe an internal component is the culprit, take the computer in for repairs or contact the manufacturer for warranty and replacement information. In certain instances, you might be able to troubleshoot and solve the problem on your own. For instance, if you suspect static electricity is the issue, try disconnecting all components from the motherboard and reconnecting them. You can also attempt to reseat the RAM or replace the battery. If you're not comfortable working with PC components, it's advisable to let a professional handle it.

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Bonus Tip: Check the System After Turning On the PC

Upon resolving the issue where the PC won't turn on but the motherboard light is on, you should check the system upon booting to prevent a recurrence of the same situation.

tools Partition Master is a versatile tool that can assist you in checking your system. It can be beneficial if you are encountering any issues with your computer or simply wish to ensure that everything is functioning properly.

Step 1. Right-click the problematic partition.

Step 2. Choose "Advanced" > "Check File System".

Step 3. Confirm whether you want to hide the partition or not.

Step 4. In the Check File System window, select the "Try to fix errors if found" option.

Step 5. Click "Start" to begin checking for errors on the partition.

Aside from examining the file system, the Partition Master tool can also assist in resizing, creating, formatting, and deleting partitions. It's a convenient utility to have on hand, saving you considerable time and frustration. Apart from the motherboard problem, there could be other physical or logical issues that prevent your computer from booting. For more solutions, refer to this page for assistance:

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It's common to encounter a situation where your computer doesn't turn on after pressing the boot button. You might notice that the power is on, but there's no display on the screen. This article offers six solutions to help you troubleshoot a PC that won't boot.

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Conclusion

One of the most frustrating issues you can encounter when trying to use your PC is when it fails to turn on, despite the motherboard light being on or it being plugged in. Several factors can contribute to this problem, and in this article, we'll present some potential solutions. Attempt these remedies to resolve your issue. If none of these work, you might need to consult a qualified technician for further examination.