Xbox -> Problem Resolution -> Power Supply:

There are several problems that can occur with the power supply unit (often referred to as PSU).

Crackling sounds (and possibly smoke) from where the power cord plugs in is caused by loose pins on the power input plug. This issue caused Microsoft to place a recall on v1.0 and v1.1 power cords, and they offered replacement cords with an inline fuse and a larger plug. This does not fix the problem, but does prevent it from shorting and starting a fire. To repair this problem, remove the PSU from the Xbox. On the underside of the power input plug (where the power line plugs in) there are 3 large pins soldered to the board which have broken their solder connections. This happens most often on v1.0 and v1.1 Xboxes when the power cord is bumped too hard or too many times. Simply resolder the pins for the plug and it will be fixed, but try to be careful not to bump the power cord too much or the connections can break again.

An Xbox that does not power on at all can be caused by a fried PSU, or a blown fuse on the power supply board. Test the fuse with a meter to determine if it is blown. If it is blown, it can be replaced with an inline fuse (found in electronics or auto department). If the fuse is good, the power supply will need to be replaced.

Photos of different styles of power supply fuse:



The Amps and Volts required for the fuse will be written either on the fuse itself or on the board next to the fuse. It must be replaced with a fuse having the same Amps and Volts, size and shape do not matter.