After a Linux mint install my PC not only won't boot into the OS but I can't even get into the UEFI
After a Linux mint install my PC not only won't boot into the OS but I can't even get into the UEFI
I acquired a new desktop from a recycling center and installed a fresh M.2 NVMe SSD along with a GTX 1070 graphics card. After completing the setup, I connected it to my computer and powered it on. It successfully booted into UEFI, even though the machine had no operating system previously installed—though the included drive wasn’t recognized either. This drive was brand new, just taken out of the box. My PC originally came with a SATA SSD, another SATA hard drive, and an optical drive. In the UEFI setup, only two drives were listed as recognized. I realized I should have double-checked the product codes but assumed it was my M.2 and the optical drive.
I then used a Linux Mint flash installation media to complete the setup. The final step required a restart, after which I was told not to remove the installation medium and to press Enter. During this process, my monitor displayed a black screen with a faint grey rectangle in the lower third. It remained that way for about thirty minutes before going completely dark.
Now I can’t boot into Mint, nor can I access the BIOS. I attempted the F2 and DEL keys shown on the startup screen, but nothing happened.
Possible reasons for this situation:
1. The GPU was installed incorrectly—confirmed by checking the BIOS with the monitor connected via display port.
2. The SSD may have been damaged or installed improperly; I removed it from the PC, placed it in an external NVMe enclosure, and booted normally.
3. The monitor issue could stem from a hardware fault or incorrect connection.
My main theories:
- Linux Mint might have altered the BIOS/UEFI settings unexpectedly.
- The machine may have tried to boot from a non-existent DVD drive, which is unlikely.
- I’m considering that the system failed to recognize the installation medium after removal.
I hope this explanation helps and that someone in the community can assist me with this problem. I value the Linux community’s support.