When a computer gets a hit from lightening, it can transmit to the
computer without making the computer smell like fried parts and pieces.
I believe that the systems power supply absorbed the hit and tripped a
fusible link located in the power supply.  I would not attempt replacing
the fuse(dangerous), I would just try replacing the power supply.
BUT... (there's always a but.....)  Since the computer itself is
delicate, it may have also sustained some further damage beyond the
power supply.  It could have fried other components or over-charged them
in a way that they will still work, but will cause errors (Blue Screen
of Death) or other oddball errors.  I would bring the system to a
computer repair person, or a "GURU" that you can trust.  They can test
questionable parts or swap them out with some used ones to see if they
still work.  If the power supply swap works right off the bat, and the
system runs...  Keep an eye on how the system connects to the net.  The
modem or network card may also have been damaged in the strike.  And as
always, get a guaranteed surge protector, or even better, a power backup
system that can handle both filtering your power and internet
connection.  Good luck

Don Morgan
Mountain Computers


-----Original Message-----
From: PCBUILD - Personal Computer Hardware discussion List
[mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Terrence Nolley
Sent: Wednesday, August 14, 2002 1:39 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [PCBUILD] Dead PC...


Hello all,

    I was recently asked to looked at a friend's PC that was apparently
struck by lightning.  Also attached to the power-strip (Not
surge-protector) is a monitor and a printer.  Neither one of these
devices was damaged. However, the HP computer has no power what so ever,
after pressing the power button.  I've tried changing the power cable
and the outlet without success.  Also, I didn't notice or smell any
burnt components after opening the case.  Could someone tell me a step
by step logical process for trouble-shooting such an issue.   Thanks

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