Longest you've owned a PC? Realistic lifespan..?

IvanOpinion

poppellerant said:

I'd advise caution if you're using an old PSU.  If possible, lift the lid of the PSU and check for scorches and bulging capacitors.  You can use software to check the voltages on the PSU, but I'd personally recommend using a multimeter and ensuring that the voltages aren't any more than 5% out of range - if so, very seriously consider a new PSU before it lets out the magic smoke, taking other components with it.

Not necessarily bad advice but it is important that someone should only consider opening a power supply if they know what they are doing - anyone else should most definitely not open up a power supply.