Start up issues

[jacobce]

Start up the HP desktop and it humms for a couple of seconds and shuts down. Starts up again after it shuts down and repeats this over and over again. Probably something simple but I'm not a computer wizard. Had it for just over a year.

Thanks, Chuck

[BeemerBiker]

This sounds like the over load protection is defective.

https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/ocp-overcurrent-protection-power-supply-definition-psu,6241.htm...

Normally with overload the system shuts down instantly and does not restart.  With a defective OCP or OLP it restarts and loops until you unplug the system.

Does it quit retrying after 3 attempts?  If so the motherboard BIOS has decided it cannot boot the system.  That is a different problem.

Disconnect hard drive and DVD if any.  Blow out all dust then remove memory sticks.  Put a single stick back in and see if it boots up.  Is there any error code info such as beeps or blinking light on the num lock that is a pattern?

If not then take it to a repair center that handles HP systems.  You did not mention your model or product ID.   If you have an older HP system it might have a standard ATX power supply which means that just about any repair place can quickly test the power supply..  I assume you do not have a laptop.

Contact the repair or tech place ahead of time and see if they can test the power supply with the understanding that if the power supply is no good you will buy a new one there.

If they want a fee just to look at your system try another place.  Usually the fee is more than the cost of a used or reconditioned power supply.