sizzling sound when switching computer on & off

cherry76

Friend gave me her old computer. I have noticed I get electric shock when I switched it on. I thought may be because the ventilation was blocked and the tower was not in the right way. I rectified it and now everytime I switch on and off, I can hear a sizzling sound coming from the computer. Needless to say I am not using it and I am due to have my electrics check at the end of the month and will ask about it. Friend said it was ok when she used. Is it possible there is something wrong with the electric socket, anyway am not touching it until the electrician checksit? Thanks

fwor

Unless it's very old, it's more likely that you're getting static electricity shocks from the PC's chassis than mains electricity shocks. Modern PCs are very well designed to keep mains power within the steel "cage" of the power supply. If you get a 240V mains shock you will know all about it, as the few that I've had have all been ~extremely~ painful - typically the involuntary muscle contractions will throw you several feet away from the source.

It sounds as though the power supply may be in the process of failing, though there are several other possibilities (e.g. a poorly connected mains cable). You need to track down the precise location of the sound to diagnose it in further detail.

JasX

fwor wrote: »

If you get a 240V mains shock you will know all about it, as the few that I've had have all been ~extremely~ painful - typically the involuntary muscle contractions will throw you several feet away from the source...

yes, i've done that before too.... definitely not recommended :silenced:

Mr_Oink

Assuming you've changed the power lead (moulded euro connector end are known failures that do this) sizzling is akin to burning/arcing. Any smell at all? Do a quick check by borrowing the lead from your kettle!

Personally I would change out the PSU for the sake of the the cost. £7.99 will get you a cheap 300w PSU from Ebuyer (item 20083) but check the rating on the unit you have first in case it wants something a bit meatier.

timbim_2

fwor wrote: »

Unless it's very old, it's more likely that you're getting static electricity shocks from the PC's chassis than mains electricity shocks. Modern PCs are very well designed to keep mains power within the steel "cage" of the power supply. If you get a 240V mains shock you will know all about it, as the few that I've had have all been ~extremely~ painful - typically the involuntary muscle contractions will throw you several feet away from the source.

Nothing quite like a 10,000V shock, I know a bloke who got one of those, found fine, if somewhat surprised, two rooms away.

cherry76

It is statistic electric shock I am getting. I will not be using it until the electrician checks it. It is only there as a back up. Thaks