ATX Desktop Power Supply: Excessive output ripple | Auckland
Pattern to record: Resets or audio and display instability increase as load rises.
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 filtering no longer keeps DC rails smooth during load changes.
Mains and connector safety
Power supplies contain lethal mains sections and should not be opened casually. A simple average voltage reading can miss damaging ripple.
Workshop checks
- Measure standby and loaded rails with known hardware while separating PSU from board faults.
- Measure ripple with suitable equipment under controlled load.
Repair and loaded verification
If the checks support this cause, replace the defective supply or failed rated filtering components. 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.