My computer worked fine for about a year but recently it seems there is a problem with powering the pc. SOMETIMES it will come on absolutely fine, but yesterday when I switched on the computer there was a small surge of power and then it died the longer I leave it off, the longer the surge of power till eventually it will fully come on and stay on. Also I can only turn it off by holding in the power button on the front until it shuts off. There is an on off switch at the back which does nothing when switched off, isn't that supposed to turn the computer off? I have been told that my PSU could be on its way out? If it has I was going to buy a new one myself..will it have to be the same as the old one or just compatible with the motherboard...how will I know whats the right one to buy?

Hi there. Welcome to ItsAllPC

It does sound like your PSU is on the way out.

You don't have to buy the same one however to be able to point you in the right direction we need some information about your computer such as make and model of your motherboard or the make and model of your current PSU.

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the model of the PSU is: ATX-350w p4..does that help?

Yup.

You need an ATX PSU. I'm not sure if you need 18 or 20 pin, but that does not matter provided it comes with an adapter.

Go to any local PC store and ask for a decent ATX PSU, they will be happy to help.

__________________
I Beat Anorexia.

If I have helped you, please consider donating a little cash to Cancer Research UK