Why does my PC turn on for a second and then turn off? How do I fix my power cycling computer? If your computer turns on and off repeatedly, you come to the right place. NewsPivot writes this post to you, focusing on reasons and fixes.

Desktop/Laptop Turns on Then off Immediately

Imagine you are working on a PC and suddenly, it shuts down. Then you turn it on but the computer turns off immediately. This situation could repeat time after time, making you frustrated. If you have unsaved data, it could be a nightmare.

You may wonder why your computer turns on and off repeatedly. Overheating, loose/corrupt power cables, an issue with the power supply, hardware malfunction, and more may result in a computer that turns on and then off immediately.

Next, you should take some useful measures to solve your issue. Let’s delve into what you should do.

Also read: How to Change Main Display on Windows 11/10

#1. Check the Power Supply and Cables

Your PC turns on and off repeatedly commonly due to a faulty power supply and loose power cable. So, it is necessary to test your power supply. If you don’t know how to do it, refer to this guide – How to Tell If PSU Is Failing?

To check if your power cable is loose or not, disconnect it and then connect again to another wall socket.

Besides, check the Power button on the PC. Debris or liquid residue could enter the crevices, causing a sticky button. As a result, your computer turns on and off. Try to clear the button and see if it helps.

#2. Check PC Temperature

When the temperature inside the computer exceeds a certain value, components may fail or malfunction. One of the signs that your PC is struggling with heat is computer random restarts. If your computer keeps turning on and off, the urgent thing is to check the temperature and cool down the machine.

  • Make sure all the fans work properly, especially the CPU cooler fan.
  • Check if your CPU heatsink is installed
  • Let the PC in a cool environment
  • Clear any dust and debris

Also read: Is “Make This My Main Display” Greyed Out? Useful Fixes Here

#3. Check and Reseat RAM

The situation of your computer turns on then shuts off and repeats can also be one symptom of RAM failure. If you install more than one RAM stick, another one may malfunction. To check if the issue is with your RAM, insert the RAM stick to the available slot and open the PC. Test each stick one by one while the PC has several RAM sticks.

Note:
All the memory modules should be installed in pairs and in matching slots with corresponding colors. If necessary, remember to clear the dust on your RAM.

#4. Reset CMOS

This way can erase BIOS memory and reset it to the factory settings. If your computer turns on and off repeatedly, have a try. You can try two ways to clear CMOS – remove the battery or use the Jumper way. For details, see this guide – How to Clear CMOS?

CMOS battery

Related post: How to Fix The CMOS Checksum Is Invalid Error on Windows

#5. Check Your Motherboard

Issues with your motherboard circuit could lead to PC power cycling and replacing the entire motherboard can solve the issue. While your computer turns on and off by itself and you don’t know if your motherboard goes wrong, seek help from professionals.

Final Words

All the fixes above require some computer skills. If your computer keeps turning on and off and you are an absolute beginner, take the PC to a repair shop.

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