Hey All,

Getting extremely frustrated with this. Posted a new question because my issue seems to be just a bit different than what others have experienced. Essential system specs are as follows:

Custom Build

Case: Thermaltake Armor
MB: Asus P5N32-SLI Deluxe
CPU: Intel Pentium D Presler 3.4 GHz w/ aftermarket Zalman VF900 Fan
Power Supply Unit: Thermaltake Toughpower 750W
Video: Dual EVGA GeForce 7800GTX run in SLI
HDD: Couple Seagates (can't exactly remember) run in RAID 0

So, build the machine. Works like a dream for a couple weeks. Then, regardless of activity level or strain, will periodically decide to shut itself off. First few times, just boot back up, no problem. Then, the power switch stops functioning. Unplug machine, check connections, everything seems fine. I plug machine back in, and it starts up on its own, without pressing the power button. This works for a couple days while I'm trying to troubleshoot the thing. When it goes down, just unplug and plug back in. Well, now that doesnt seem to work anymore.

Anyway, it's an odd problem in that the machine seems to have slowly died, rather than in an easily identifiable shower of sparks. No burning smell, nothing to indicate a problem. Anyone have any thoughts on this? I really dont want to go buy another power supply only to have that not be the issue, and I cant test mine as I have no spare MB with the appropriate connection.

Thanks all.

Hello Fischecj, welcome to PCHF.

The only way you'll be able to tell is by the green light on the motherboard. If there is power, this will be lit to indicate that there is power, no matter if the PC is switched on or not. Altough it doesn't completely rule out a motherboard issue, if there is no LED lit, then it is very very likely to be the PSU. If it is lit, then it's most likely to be the motherboard.

It looks like you have a great and well thought out setup there Fis. All top quality manufacturers, and it's rare for these to experience problems, but it looks like your unlucky this time!

You should not have to buy anything ...I am sure Thermaltake would warranty a Power Supply Unit that's "SLI certified" as that one is.


What about the SLI ? I have read some wild issues running duals--try taking one card out just to see if it boots ? As long as the power LED is there, of course.

NVIDIA Forums > SLI

Okay, so, took some time over the holiday weekend to do some mechanical work. Disassembled enitre machine, took some notes first. Indicator light on MB is (was) on. However, after inspecting power supply, the interior appears to be covered in white goo that seems to have exploded out of cylindrical structures (capacitors?). I'm assuming this is indicative of a blown PS and, though it still has the ability to supply a trickle charge to the MB, it cannot muster enough to boot and/or run the machine? Sound about right?

Does sound like the capacitors. Are you surge protected? Please tell me your getting this replaced?

I also have the same Power Supply Unit and not experienced anything like this, and hope not to.

I sure hope you brought it new...

you should still have a warranty for it if you did. i'd get in touch with Thermaltake and get them to send you a replacement.

I also use a surge protector and have done for years now. (this one to be exact: http://www.more-shop.co.uk/images/belkin_surge.jpg )
we get alot of power cuts, and other wierd electrical problems so i consider it essential...if you suffer with similar problems in your area i wouldn't be surprised if it was partly responsible for your ruined PSU....(but dont let thermaltake know )

i've never had any problems with my Thermaltake products. so i dont know what Thermaltake will be like with you, so do let us know how it goes.