Pattern to record: Cold startup is delayed and regulation worsens under normal load.

Identify the supply and load

An ATX power supply provides several outputs and startup signals. Document the PSU model and connected loads; a spinning fan or a simple unloaded start test does not establish stable operation under load. One possible explanation is that heat and operating time have reduced component performance and startup margin.

Mains and connector safety

Power supplies contain lethal mains sections and should not be opened casually. Visible appearance alone cannot confirm that a mains supply is healthy.

Workshop checks

1. Measure standby and loaded rails with known hardware while separating PSU from board faults.
2. Compare startup waveform, rail stability and physical condition with a known supply.

Repair and loaded verification

If the checks support this cause, replace the ageing supply rather than stress connected hardware. Verification should cover cold start, processor and graphics load, sleep, restart and all required connectors.

For an assessment of your desktop PC, contact AEPC in Burswood or call 027 908 8880. Provide the model and the conditions that reproduce this problem. Workshop visits are by appointment.