Broken Power Supply - Questions

[xVx-01]

Hello
My computer won't turn on and I'm certain the problem is my power supply. Before it completely died, the power supply corrupted my secondary hard drive. I don't know much about power supplies...is there a preferred brand for a replacement?
Are there specific power supplies for specific systems or will any one work?
How do I know for future when my power supply is going to die on me?
Is there any way to get my corrupted data off my hard disk?
Should I replace the part myself or go to a professional?
Any answers would be much appreciated
Cheers
-V

 

[Motoxrdude]

How do you know its your powersupply?
If you are absolutly positive, then yes you can replace it. Its a fairly easy task also. As far as what powersupply, whats your budget? Or just post your computer specs and i can pick out the cheapest/best one for you.

 

[apj101]

is there a preferred brand for a replacement?

there are several good brands, and psu101 lists some

Are there specific power supplies for specific systems or will any one work?

yes we need to know the type of case and board you have

How do I know for future when my power supply is going to die on me?

no real way to tell, i assume you are sure your current probs stem from psu failure (have you tried to jump start it?, see google for how)
But there isnt really a way, surge protectors may help... but not a huge deal

Is there any way to get my corrupted data off my hard disk?

there are specialist tools/companies out there that can help recover lost data, they vary in success rates and price some are listed here
http://www.hddrecovery.com.au/DR_disk_failure_files_2.htm

Should I replace the part myself or go to a professional?

its a relatively simple proceedure, and we can talk you through it... but be aware that opening you case may void your computers warrenty (if it has one )... but then if it did you'd use it to claim the failed psu

Any answers would be much appreciated\

your most welcome, hope i helped