Was working fine but had a vague, slight burning-resistor smell. All of a sudden gave up the ghost tonight after a month of the smell. Is the smell any kind of clue? I plan to open it but from the slightness of the scent, I don't expect to find anything more than slightly browned.
If it hasn't suffered a front end failure, evidenced by a violently blown fuse, then I would feel inclined to suspect a bad electrolytic. The smell may have actually been hot electrolyte venting from a failing cap. Be aware that computer SMPSs are notoriously fickle as switchers go, and often resist fixing to the point of tearing out your hair. They are so cheap that it is often better for the blood pressure (and other nearby members of the family's health) to just shell out a bit of wonga for a nice shiny brand new replacement ...
Arfa
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