"Dead on arrival" is a support phrase, not a separate South African remedy. A new gaming PC that will not power on, cannot complete setup or crashes repeatedly on its first day may fail the CPA's quality standard. Section 56 then gives the consumer the repair, replacement or refund choice for a qualifying claim.

Quick Answer

Stop troubleshooting once safety or further damage becomes a concern. Photograph the delivered condition, record the serial number and capture the failed start or error. Report the problem immediately in writing and state the remedy you choose under Sections 55 and 56. Day-one timing is strong evidence, although the supplier may still inspect the system to distinguish a product defect, loose shipping connection or transit damage. Individual disputes need advice on their facts.

📹 Capture the first failure before changing the machine

Film the power attempt, monitor connection and visible diagnostic lights. List the supplied cables and any basic checks performed. Avoid reseating components or opening sealed areas unless the seller asks and you are comfortable doing so.

If there is impact damage, photograph the carton, internal packaging and chassis from several angles. Keep every loose piece.

Evetech's PC best-sellers and best-selling product range give the original model context to attach to an order record.

✉️ Report it while the timeline is simple

Use the order number, delivery time and full symptom in the subject line. State whether you want refund, replacement or repair. An inspection can confirm the cause without silently becoming permission to repair.

Back up data if the machine reached setup and remains stable enough. If it did not, tell support that no personal data was added.

📦 Shipping damage remains part of the claim story

A retailer may investigate the courier and packaging, but that internal allocation should not make the consumer chase the courier alone for goods delivered damaged. Preserve evidence and ask the supplier to coordinate the return.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as dead on arrival for a gaming pc?

A system that cannot perform its ordinary purpose from first delivery, such as no power or repeatable critical failure, may qualify.

Should a DOA claim start with a repair request?

Not automatically. For a qualifying first-six-month claim, the consumer can direct repair, replacement or refund.

How quickly should a DOA claim be reported?

As soon as the failure is discovered. Prompt written notice keeps delivery and fault timing clear.

Does a DOA claim need proof beyond a description of the fault?

Clear video, photos, error codes and serial details make assessment easier, although evidence needs depend on the case.

Is a DOA laptop or component treated differently to a full PC?

The quality principles can apply to each. Diagnosis and safe return handling differ by product.

Can a retailer blame shipping damage to avoid a DOA claim?

Transit cause may be investigated, but the consumer should present the delivered condition to the supplier and preserve evidence.

Does a DOA claim still apply after installing extra software?

Software installation does not automatically erase rights. Whether it caused the failure is a factual question.

Want the first day of a new PC to create a clean baseline? Compare gaming PCs at Evetech, then photograph the delivered condition and save the serial number before setup begins.