Falls Technology ServicesA computer that won't start is scary, but it's often something simple, and your files are usually still on the drive.
First, which kind of "won't turn on"?
- Nothing at all: no lights, no fan, no sound
- Lights or fans come on, but the screen stays black
- It starts, shows a logo, then stops or restarts
Try this first
- Check the charger: is its light on, and is it firmly plugged in at both ends? Try a different outlet
- Unplug the charger (and anything else plugged in), hold the power button for 30 seconds, then plug the charger back in and try again
- If lights or fans come on but the screen is black, connect a TV or monitor. If a picture appears there, the problem is the screen, not the computer
- Leave a laptop on the charger for half an hour: a completely flat battery can take a while to show any sign of life
What is usually behind it
- A failed charger or a worn charging port
- A dead battery
- A failed screen or screen cable (the computer is actually running)
- Memory or a drive that has come loose or failed
- A fault on the main board, such as a power circuit, often after a spill or a power surge
When to bring it to us
If none of the above helps, it's time for a proper look. We test the charger, battery, screen and board, tell you what it takes before we start, and repair it at our bench, including board-level repair. If the computer isn't worth fixing, we say so, and we can still get your files off it.
Need a hand?
More about our computer and laptop repair help. Or tell us what's going on and we'll tell you what it takes before we start.
Send us a message or call (208) 745-2981, Monday to Friday, 9 to 5.