Purdue Fort Wayne- PC making loud clicking sound

Overview

Helpful advice when a PC is making a unusual sound. 

Instructions

If your PC is making a clicking sound, it’s essential to investigate the cause. Here are some potential reasons:

1. Failing Hard Drive:
   1. A little low-volume clicking is normal for most hard drives during operation.
   2. However, a loud “snap” or “click” noise indicates mechanical failure with either the disk or the actuator arm.
   3. Back up your data immediately if you can boot into your operating system, as the drive might fail soon.
2. Failing CD or DVD Drive:
   1. Optical drives (like hard drives) use spinning discs and moving arms.
   2. Loud clicking may occur when reading data from a faulty disc or due to motor/laser issues.
3. Power Issues:
   1. If your PC clicks right before shutting off, it could be a power supply or wiring problem.
   2. That loud “click” signals power failure and component shutdown.

Course of Action

Contact the Help Desk ASAP and have them listen to the sound.

Still need help?  Click the 'Purdue IT Request' button to start a ticket.