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Jack1.0 · 01-25-2006, 06:14 PM

The Power Supply Unit (PSU) in a computer can easily develop hums that are not related to fans. PSU’s take 60 Hertz AC current (depending on the country you live in) and converting it into DC current. The components (diodes, coils, capacitors etc.) that handle the AC portion actually vibrate at the frequency of the current flowing through them because of the magnetic fields they generate. While not a very strong vibration most of the time, if a component is not properly soldered and physically insulated it can work its way loose and is often an indicator of potential failure. Bottom line, sounds like a good time to replace the Power Supply. You may also want to consider betting a slightly beefier PSU. If you have a 350 watt PSU consider getting a 400 watt PSU. The hum could be an indication that existing PSU is working harder than it was designed for.

01-25-2006, 06:14 PM	#6 (permalink)
Jack1.0 Tilted	The Power Supply Unit (PSU) in a computer can easily develop hums that are not related to fans. PSU’s take 60 Hertz AC current (depending on the country you live in) and converting it into DC current. The components (diodes, coils, capacitors etc.) that handle the AC portion actually vibrate at the frequency of the current flowing through them because of the magnetic fields they generate. While not a very strong vibration most of the time, if a component is not properly soldered and physically insulated it can work its way loose and is often an indicator of potential failure. Bottom line, sounds like a good time to replace the Power Supply. You may also want to consider betting a slightly beefier PSU. If you have a 350 watt PSU consider getting a 400 watt PSU. The hum could be an indication that existing PSU is working harder than it was designed for. __________________ Jack1.0 ---------------------------------------------- I've learned to embrace my inner Geek. I haven't found anything else I'm good at.