PicoSystem Not Powering on

Hello,
New to the forum. Bought a PicoSystem and couldn’t get it to power on straight out of the box. The retailer has asked me to post here for assistance before initiating a return or replacement.

The red LED comes on when plugged in. But nothing happens when I try to power on the unit.

I tried:

  • using different usb charging cables, including data transfer cables
  • connecting to a wall outlet, a Mac laptop and a Windows 11 laptop
  • turning it on while plugged in and while unplugged but had been charging for 1 hour
  • pressing the power button, holding the power button, and holding the power button with the X button while plugged into a computer
  • opened the unit and tested with a multimeter that the power supply is receiving power, the voltage regulator near the power supply is receiving power and the power button passed conductivity test when pressed.

Please let me know if there is anything else you would recommend trying.

“Pico System” does not compute - no clue as to what product you are talking about.
Please explain what you have purchased and ideally provide a link to the product so we can provide further help.

He’s clearly referring to a PicoSystem - I’m not sure it was that confusing.

To the OP; it sounds like you’ve tried all the obvious things - even if the battery has died, you should be able to get some life out of it when plugged in; it rather sounds like it’s a poorly unit (which is a shame, because it’s a lovely thing, even if the screen is too tiny for my old eyes!)

Aha! thanks for link. Apologies, I’ve not come across that product before.

Will it go into Boot Mode?
If yes I would try re flashing it.
Releases · pimoroni/picosystem

Thanks. I hadn’t tried that.
After attempting, using a proper data cable, I still can’t get the computer to recognize when the Pico is plugged into it. The Pico just won’t show any sign of powering on.

IMHO, it’s time for a refund or return.