dell wont start unless it is unplugged from the wall first

[matanzas]

I have a client with a Dell (P4, 256 meg, running XPP) that won't start unless it is unplugged from the wall and then plugged back in.
If she doesn't do that she gets the Dell flash screen at startup for about 3 seconds and then the screen goes into standby mode and the computer just sits there.

It is fully updated (Windows and hardware) and there are no "?" in device manager.

Any thoughts welcomed.

TIA

 

[bcastner]

If this is a notebook, replace the battery.

 

[matanzas]

Sorry, I should have indicated, it's a desktop

 

[bcastner]

If it is a desktop, replace the power supply.

This in fact may be an issue of a mis-seated RAM module or PCI adapter; loose cables to the hard disk drive; or some similar minor connection issue.

But the chances are good it is the power supply.

 

[matanzas]

Thanks BC, I shall check the connections and get back to you later in the week

 

[paparazi]

Dito
Sounds most likely a power supply fault.
Martin

We like members to GIVE and not just TAKE.
Participate and help others.

 

[matanzas]

I'll take along a PS as well.
Thanks

 

[bcastner]

You may find it a little tough to find a replacement Power Supply other than from Dell parts.

 

[matanzas]

OH, drat... you're right. It doesnt look anything like a normal PS. It's long and flat. There is another machine with the same PS so I could swap them and see if the problem happens on the other machine.
Thanks.