Desktop Pc Burn

[trixilator]

In middle of operating my desktop pc (preparing to print off a web page) suddenly went pffffft and smoke began filtering out of the tower - smelt of burning electronics. Printer stayed on. Immediately switched off at mains.
Acrid smelling smoke continued for 5 minutes or so.
Short circuit somewhere I'd say but where? Is this sufficient info for someone to diagnose and guesstimate if its a write-off or salvageable?
Much appreciate advice. Thanks

[bhg481]

You should easily be able to remove one of the side panels and have a look inside - the burnt bit should be easy to spot.
The side panels are normally held on by a machine screw with a cross-head slot on the back. They usually slide off backwards when the screw has been removed.

[1ozzy]

Sounds bad to me.
Possibly the "power supply" in the tower.
Unless the unit is disassembled and investigated one will never know.

[Mosaic]

Please do not unscrew the panels to look until you have isolated the pc from all power sources and earthed yourself.

[Old_Geezer]

http://www.netfunny.com/rhf/jokes/96/Jun/nosmoke.html

[jomifl]

Sounds like the power supply but be warned that voltage surges produced by a self destructing power supply can damgage the motherboard etc. Power supplies are not expensive but it would be worth while borrowing one to see if the pc still works as you won't want to buy a power supply for a dead pc. If you have to buy a new one make sure that the connectors to the various components are compatible.

[HansUrbancka]

How old is your Desktop, what make, model number, and what windows are being used.?

Such information could help to say if it's time for you to think about buying a new Computer.

Hans.

[pinkyboyid]

If it is the power supply, which is most likely, here is some info at the the following link on how to remove and replace with new, which is basically isolate from mains electrics, remove computer side panel, note location of all the current internal power supply cable connections locations then disconnect them, remove 4 power supply retaining screws to remove the Power supply unit. Replace with new unit, reconnect cables and test if all ok,

See:
http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-replace-your-desktop-pcs-power-supply.html

Also, as an example a possible power supply replacement for approx £15 delivered:

http://www.aria.co.uk/Products/Components/Power+Supplies/Non-Modular+650W+or+less/Alpine+III+Black+500W+Quiet+Power+Supply+?productId=63320