1. Power Issues

Symptoms:

• The computer does not power on.
• Power is intermittent or the system shuts down unexpectedly.

Possible Causes:

• Faulty power supply.
• Damaged or loose power connectors.
• Faulty power button.

Troubleshooting Steps:

• Check the power supply unit (PSU) to ensure it is functioning correctly. Use a PSU tester or swap with a known working unit.
• Verify that all power connectors (24-pin ATX, 4/8-pin CPU power) are securely connected to the motherboard.
• Inspect the power button connection on the motherboard and try using the power button on the motherboard itself if available.

2. No POST (Power-On Self-Test)

Symptoms:

• The computer powers on, but there are no beeps or display on the monitor.
• The system does not boot into BIOS.

Possible Causes:

• Faulty CPU or RAM.
• Incorrectly seated components.
• Damaged motherboard.

Troubleshooting Steps:

• Ensure the CPU and RAM are properly seated in their sockets.
• Remove and reinstall the RAM modules one at a time to identify faulty memory.
• Check for any bent pins on the CPU socket.
• Clear the CMOS by removing the battery or using the motherboard’s clear CMOS jumper.

3. Overheating

Symptoms:

• The system shuts down or restarts unexpectedly.
• The CPU or other components feel excessively hot to the touch.

Possible Causes:

• Inadequate cooling or failed cooling components.
• Dust buildup obstructing airflow.
• Faulty sensors or thermal paste.

Troubleshooting Steps:

• Ensure all fans (CPU, case, GPU) are working properly.
• Clean any dust from the motherboard, heatsinks, and fans.
• Reapply thermal paste to the CPU.
• Check BIOS/UEFI settings for fan speed and temperature monitoring.

4. Peripheral Issues

Symptoms:

• USB ports, audio jacks, or other peripherals are not functioning.
• Devices connected to the motherboard are not recognized.

Possible Causes:

• Faulty drivers or BIOS settings.
• Damaged ports or connectors.

Troubleshooting Steps:

• Update motherboard drivers and BIOS/UEFI firmware.
• Test the problematic peripherals on another computer to rule out device issues.
• Inspect and clean the ports for any physical damage or debris.

5. BIOS/UEFI Corruption

Symptoms:

• The system fails to boot or shows BIOS/UEFI errors.
• Settings are not saved or revert to default.

Possible Causes:

• Power surges or interruptions during firmware updates.
• Malware or improper BIOS settings.

Troubleshooting Steps:

• Reset the BIOS/UEFI to default settings by clearing the CMOS.
• Update or re-flash the BIOS/UEFI firmware from the motherboard manufacturer’s website.
• Use a surge protector to prevent future power-related issues.

6. Expansion Slot Failures

Symptoms:

• Graphics card or other expansion cards are not detected.
• System crashes or exhibits instability when using expansion cards.

Possible Causes:

• Faulty or improperly seated expansion cards.
• Damaged PCI/PCIe slots.

Troubleshooting Steps:

• Ensure the expansion cards are properly seated in their slots.
• Test the cards in different slots or on another motherboard to isolate the problem.
• Inspect the slots for physical damage.