PSU Paperclip Test Guide | Generated by AI
Question: What does the linked YouTube video explain?
Answer: The video is a guide from Corsair on how to perform a basic functionality check on a desktop computer power supply unit (PSU) using the “paperclip test.” This test helps determine if a computer’s booting issues are caused by a faulty power supply or if the motherboard is simply failing to send the turn-on signal.
The steps outlined in the video are:
- Disconnect the PSU completely from all major internal PC components.
- Leave or connect a small load, such as a single case fan, as some power supplies require a minor load to boot.
- Turn off the PSU by setting the back switch to the “0” (off) position and pulling the power cord out from the wall.
- Locate the 24-pin motherboard connector and identify the single green wire.
- Bend a regular paperclip into a U-shape and insert one end into the pin corresponding to the green wire and the other end into any pin connected to a black wire (ground).
- Plug the power supply back in and flip the switch to the “1” (on) position.
If the power supply fan and the connected case fan begin to spin, the power supply is successfully receiving power and emulating the motherboard signal. If they do not spin, the power supply has failed the test.