HP Envy desktop shuts off overnight and will not power on via switch until unplugged and plugged in

[ToddBauer]

I'm having this exact issue.

https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Desktop-Hardware-and-Upgrade-Questions/HP-Envy-desktop-shuts-off-overn...

I'm not the only one. I have checked my power settings and my PC 'SHOULD' never go to sleep. However, it is and is unable to be powered back up until it's been unplugged for a minute and plugged back in.

It's out of warranty. What can I do?

[NonSequitur777 · Accepted solution]

@ToddBauer,

Welcome to our HP Community forum!

Indeed, this particular issue has been known by HP for a number of years and has not yet been resolved to the best of my knowledge.

I can predict what HP's hypothetical response most likely would be, though:

"Experiencing unexpected shutdowns of your HP Envy desktop, followed by the need to unplug and reconnect the power cable to restart, can be both frustrating and indicative of underlying hardware or software issues. Here are several steps to help diagnose and potentially resolve the problem:

1. Check Power Settings:

   • Sleep and Hibernate Settings: Ensure that your system's power settings aren't configured to enter sleep or hibernate modes after a period of inactivity. Adjust these settings to prevent the computer from shutting down unexpectedly.

2. Inspect Hardware Components:

   • Power Supply Unit (PSU): A faulty PSU can cause sudden shutdowns. If possible, test your system with a different, compatible PSU to rule out this issue.
   • Motherboard Examination: Look for signs of damage, such as bulging capacitors or burn marks, which could indicate hardware failure.

3. Reset the CMOS:

   • Procedure:
     • Turn off the computer and disconnect it from the power source.
     • Open the case and locate the CMOS battery on the motherboard.
     • Remove the battery for about 5-10 minutes, then reinsert it.
     • Reconnect the power and attempt to start the system.

4. Update BIOS and Drivers:

   • Outdated BIOS or drivers can lead to system instability. Visit HP's official website to download and install the latest updates for your model.

5. Test with Minimal Hardware Configuration:

   • Disconnect all non-essential peripherals and components, leaving only the CPU, one stick of RAM, and the motherboard connected. This can help identify if another component is causing the issue.

6. Consult HP Support:

   • If the problem persists after performing the above steps, it may be indicative of a deeper hardware issue, potentially involving the motherboard. Contact HP Support for further assistance, especially if your device is under warranty."

@ToddBauer, you are correct to notice that this or similar issues have been discussed in HP's support community a number of times, where Users have reported that unplugging and reconnecting the power restores functionality temporarily. This pattern to me suggests a systemic hardware fault that should invite HP's professional attention, and in a perfect world, HP should escalate and address this issue promptly.

Kind Regards,

NonSequitur777

[ToddBauer]

Well, if that's not the perfect answer, I don't know what is.  /s

Thanks. As a retired IT guy, I appreciate the troubleshooting list and will work through it with tiny hope that it might get resolved. I like the theory that what is happening is the system is being put to sleep, but the kicker is that the power button is disabled so that it cannot be turned back on without 'draining the power'. When this started, I assumed it was a 'deep hardware defect', and that seems to be accurate based on what I'm reading. Some tiny wonkiness between the PS and MB.

I'm working on a system that will detect this condition using a Wi-fi smart plug with current usage monitoring and somehow cycle the power for me. A man can dream.

[NonSequitur777]

@ToddBauer,

You're welcome, and yes, we can dream. 😴

If you don't mind, please share any insights or observations you may stumble upon, so as to help other folks reading this discussion thread.

Kind Regards,

NonSequitur777

[ToddBauer]

I'm happy to do that. I did update the BIOS before creating the thread. I have the thing on a power monitor so at least I can nail down what time it's shutting off. The irony is that I intentionally purchased this PC from a major vendor because I wanted an 'engineered' PC that would be super quiet. I generally build my own. I got what I wanted in terms of noise, but am disappointed by this defect and/or lack of concern about it. I am otherwise extremely happy with it.

[ToddBauer]

It did it again last night. I have been trying to wake my PC before going to bed and perhaps that's helping, perhaps not. It went to sleep and could not be awakened this AM. When I removed power for a minute and then powered it back up, it did a big firmware update. Perhaps that will help? It's only done it once in the last 10 days.

[NonSequitur777]

@ToddBauer,

The closest I ever got to a similar issue as yours, has to do with a little-known quirk from internal "Power Management" settings.  Go into Device Manager and find whatever can "Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power", and uncheck it, specifically your Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices:

Kind Regards,

NonSequitur777