The Little Red Switch And Its Function

I heard some popping coming from the computer. The desktop was starting to produce a burn smell. The most logical thing to do was to turn off the computer.

This computer is a second, or spare if you will. After days passed by I thought to maybe turn the computer back on to inspect it. One last attempt before scrapping it. The thing previously had popped every few minutes (if not seconds) and the popping wouldn’t stop. What was wrong now? I had just replaced the power supply. I guessed the new one I installed could’ve been a defective one. Perhaps?

After examining the situation, turns out that there was a little red switch next to where the power cord is plugged in. It can be presumed that the power supply sets behind this area. Okay, to my surprise the little red switch had accidentally been set to 220 volts! Goodness, how can this happen on a computer?

A 220V/110V switch had been installed on the back, probably at the factory. After I flipped the switch back to 110V the popping sound stopped. Boy did I feel lucky about this one! The computer was a spare but still, a new one costs much more and I’m hoping for at least a few more months of usage.

Just a guess here, but I’m assuming that the switch would probably be for a European computer user. I think that in many places in Europe they use 220V in their outlets, instead of the 110V we are accustomed to in the United States.

I thought it kind of strange to see that type of switch on the back of a desktop but now at least I know what the deal is. I’m glad I caught it before the computer burned up. I can’t believe the switch turned on 220V didn’t destroy it. If you see the little red switch on the back of your desktop, please make sure it’s on the proper setting. Europeans would probably have it set on 220V, just guessing. I know I’m going to be more careful the next time.