Question from Devon A.: Hi Rick. I have a Compaq Presario SR2163WM that still works great, but I went to turn it on yesterday morning and the power switch broke. The button is still more or less in place but it doesn’t activate the switch when you push it.
I actually have two questions for you:
1 – Can the switch be replaced?
2 – If so, can I do it myself or should I take it to a shop?
Rick’s answer: Devon, you can indeed replace the power switch on your PC yourself, but finding one might be a problem since that’s such an old model. But I have a hunch that you won’t need to replace it at all.
Compaq Presario desktop PCs are known for having the “button” part of the power switch pop out of the socket that keeps them in contact with the rest of the switch. The first thing I would try is re-seating the button back into its socket. This can often be done simply by adjusting the position of the button from outside the case, but sometimes it requires removing the case and front cover to allow for better access to the switch.
If the switch does turn out to be truly broken, let me know and I’ll see if I can help you find one. Good luck!
Update from Devon: That’s what it was Rick, and I didn’t even have to remove the cover. Just jiggled the button a little bit and it slipped right back into place. I love your tips and really appreciate your help!
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