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How to Check for Disconnected Computer Power Cable Connections

Check the cabling if your computer won't turn on

By Tim Fisher Tim Fisher Senior Vice President & Group General Manager, Tech & Sustainability Emporia State University Tim Fisher has more than 30 years' of professional technology experience. He's been writing about tech for more than two decades and serves as the VP and General Manager of Lifewire. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on June 9, 2022 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Home Networking The Wireless Connection Routers & Firewalls Network Hubs ISP Broadband Ethernet Installing & Upgrading Wi-Fi & Wireless

What to Know

Make sure power cable fits firmly in the three-pronged power-supply port on the rear of the computer case. Verify other end of power cable is securely plugged in to wall outlet, surge protector, power strip, or battery backup. If applicable, verify that surge protector, power strip, or battery backup is securely plugged into the wall outlet. This article explains how to check your computer for loose or improperly connected power cables. This could be the culprit if your computer doesn't turn on or shuts off abruptly. 01 of 03

Check the Power Cable Behind the Computer Case

Power Cable Connection Behind Computer Case. Tim Fisher Power cables often wiggle loose from PC cases over time, or sometimes after being moved around. Checking every point where electricity is delivered to the computer system is usually a first step when a computer isn't receiving power. The first place to start is with the power cable that connects at the rear of the computer case. The power cable should fit firmly in the three-pronged port on the power supply. 02 of 03

Verify PC Power Cable Is Securely Plugged In

Power Cable Connections on Power Strip. Tim Fisher Follow the power cable from the back of the computer case to the wall outlet, surge protector, or power strip that it is (or should be) plugged in to. If your PC is attached to a battery backup unit, follow the cable there. Make sure the cable is securely plugged in. 03 of 03

Verify Power Strip or Surge Protector Is Securely Plugged in a Wall Outlet

Power Cable Connection on Wall Outlet. Tim Fisher If the power cable from the PC case was plugged into the wall outlet in the last step, your verification is already complete. If your power cable is plugged into a surge protector or a power strip, ensure that it's securely plugged into the wall outlet. The same is true for battery backup: make sure the backup unit is firmly plugged in to its power source (likely the wall). If everything is plugged in to the computer, check for disconnected monitor power cable connections. Your computer might turn on fine, but it could appear to be off if the monitor is blank. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Check for Loose Monitor Power Cable Connections How to Reseat Internal Data and Power Cables What is a PSU? What is an ATX Power Supply? How to Turn On a Mac Mini Xbox One Won't Turn On? How to Fix It How to Fix It When Your PS4 Won't Turn On How to Perform a Lamp Test to Verify Power How to Manually Test a Power Supply With a Multimeter How to Use a Power Supply Tester to Test a PSU How to Install a Graphics Card How to Fix a Computer That Shows No Sign of Power How to Test a Computer Monitor That Isn't Working How to Turn On a Mac Desktop How to Open a Desktop Computer Case How to Fix a Broken Charger How to Fix a Surface Pro Not Charging Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies