Computer inadvertently shuts off

[HiPoweredUser]

Hi there, 

I have an HP Pavillion a6600f that's been upgraded to windows seven ultimate (32 bit). In the last  couple of weeks, it has been shutting off randomly(?) while I'm using it. In the last couple days it has happened 3+ times each day. I have run malwarebytes full scan twice, as well as a bitdefender full system scan once. There are no problems. I have checked for hard drive problems (tune-up utilities). I have upgraded all drivers that I could from the hp site. I have opened up the tower and cleaned it out extensively. Probably made no difference, it isn't even close to overheating and it wasn't that dirty. It doesn't make any funny sounds. Yet, the problem persists. 

There is no one particular activity that I'm doing on the computer when it shuts off. I could be watching videos, surfing the web, playing games, listening to music,  etc., or some combination of things. Possibly after just a few minutes to a few hours, suddenly, the screen, without any warning whatsoever, will fade (fade takes about 1sec), and then the screen is black. Sound will continue for about 5-10 seconds, then stops, and then the whole pc will shut down (screen is black throughout). If I wait a few minutes (it restarts eventually, which i find rather odd), or start it up again (without switching the power bar completely off), then when I turn it on and log in, it will resume to exactly where I left off. 

Now the question is: is my power supply failing? Should I back up my pc to my 2TB seagate external drive right now to be safe, or is there nothing to worry about? I figure that if the problem worsens, I'm just going to save whatever I can from my hp and buy a new computer. It's a few years old now, but how can I be sure that the power supply is failing? Could there be any other causes?

Any support is much appreciated. Thanks in advance, 

Troy

[old_geekster]

Troy, welcome to the forum.

The symptoms that you describe certainly do sound like a PSU problem.  It is surprising how many different types of problems can be caused by a failing PSU.  Here is a guide to help you troubleshoot the problem.  The PSU is the most replaced component in a computer.

I definitely suggest doing a backup of your personal data.  I do this at least weekly; especially data and photos that I can't replace.

Please click "Accept as Solution" if your problem is solved.