After installing the CPU cooler, CPU and RAM problems have occurred.
After installing the CPU cooler, CPU and RAM problems have occurred.
I’ve owned this machine for roughly four years and noticed the processor getting quite warm. I attempted to upgrade the thermal paste, but the temperature change was only slight. The existing cooler was considered inadequate for this model (i7 8700 non-K), so I purchased a new one (Hyper 212 Evo). During installation, I had to remove one of my two 8GB DDR4 RAM sticks to properly align the fan before reinserting the memory. After finishing the setup, when I powered on the PC, everything lit up but it failed to respond—no display or power to the mouse or keyboard. I thought perhaps I over-tightened the cooler, but that didn’t help. Later, I discovered the DRAM indicator light was active on the motherboard (B360M). When I turned on the PC, the CPU lights briefly appeared before switching to the DRAM light and staying there without any beeps. It’s unclear what’s happening, so any advice would be appreciated before considering a RAM replacement. I’m hoping it isn’t a CPU problem. Below are my actions and specifications: - Removed and reinstalled RAM. - Swapped RAM into different slots. - Tested one stick at a time across various slots. - Vacuumed both RAM modules and the connectors with an air duster. - Reset CMOS (after which the monitor briefly turned on, but no further action). - Used another RAM module I had (older DDR3, uncertain compatibility). - Carefully reinstalled CPU. - PC built with several upgrades over time; only a hard drive failure occurred soon after purchase. - Current specs: i7 8700 Non-K, B360M motherboard, 8x2 DDR4 RAM, RTX 3070 (previously GTX 1080), 2 TB HDD, 250 GB SATA SSD (boot driver installed), 600W PSU. I’m open to suggestions and any additional details that might help. Update: The debug lights now alternate between DRAM and CPU, staying on DRAM longer before switching. Final note: Swapping RAM resolved the issue. It’s possible only one stick was faulty or the system needed both to boot. After updating BIOS and installing new RAM with some changes, I’m good to go. Let me know if you have more information that could assist.
Remove the CPU and inspect the motherboard's CPU socket for any bent pins. If everything appears intact, send back the CPU, reapply the thermal paste, install the cooler, and try again. Also verify that the RAM is placed in the proper slots as specified in the user guide.
I also attempted it earlier, but after checking carefully, I didn’t spot any signs of bending or issues with the socket or CPU. The RAM seems correctly seated in its slots. Nothing’s changed yet.
I’m willing to try it again, though the latest update shows the motherboard LEDs switching back and forth between the CPU and DRAM. It stays on the DRAM mode but toggles to the CPU a few seconds later.
No major issues here; just the ongoing exchange between the CPU and DRAM as seen on the debug indicators. The DRAM stays active while the CPU switches, then returns.
It was the Ram update. I didn’t notice any issues with the CPU or motherboard, so I went ahead and purchased some new RAM. It worked fine after booting! After a few BIOS adjustments, I got into Windows. The CPU is good, and the new RAM is a nice upgrade. Overall, I’m happy it was just that simple.