What to Do When There Is No Power
By Tom Nonmacher
If your PC won't power on, the first thing to check is whether it's plugged in. Look at both ends of the power cable and ensure it is securely inserted into the computer and the wall or power strip. It's common for cables to loosen over time or get kicked loose under desks. Also, verify that any power strips or surge protectors are turned on and functioning.
The outlet itself may be dead. Try plugging another device like a lamp or phone charger into the same socket to test for power. If it doesn't work, try plugging your PC into a known working outlet in another room. Tripped breakers or faulty wall wiring can often be the culprit behind a seemingly dead PC.
Look for lights or fan activity on the back of a desktop power supply unit (PSU). Some PSUs have a rocker switch that must be turned on. For laptops, make sure the charging brick isn’t damaged — try a different compatible charger if possible. If there are no signs of power at all, you may be dealing with a failed PSU or motherboard.
Sometimes the PC powers on but the screen stays black. Confirm that the monitor is on and connected properly. Look for faint backlight or LED indicators. You can also try plugging in an external monitor or changing the video cable to see if it’s just a display issue.
If you’ve gone through the steps above and still have no luck, it’s time to call in professional support. A local tech or services like SupportMyPC.com can help you diagnose and resolve issues that go beyond basic troubleshooting. Don’t open the PC case if you're not comfortable doing so — some internal components can retain power or be easily damaged.