Circuitrocks

Most common bench job: laptop wont turn on. Systematic flow saves hours vs random probing.

My sequence:

1. Check adapter output with multimeter (dead brick is 30% of cases)
2. Measure voltage at DC jack input, confirm reaching board
3. Check for shorts on main rails (buzz continuity to GND, should not beep)
4. Look for the always-on 3V rail (RTC), confirms power sequencing IC alive
5. Check EC (embedded controller) enable signals with scope
6. Feel for hot components with finger after 30s power (shorted MOSFET burns)

Most dead laptops: adapter, DC jack solder crack, or one shorted cap on a rail. Rarely the expensive stuff.

Other techs: whats your first-5-minutes flow?