After using DDU, the CPU displays a red light.
After using DDU, the CPU displays a red light.
I experienced a bothersome problem with my latest machine where the new graphics card was causing screen flickering. I attempted to diagnose the issue by using an older RX 3060 Ti and verified that it didn’t trigger the problem after updating drivers. After reinstalling, I used DDU to remove all drivers and reinstalled the 7900XT, ending the process with a "uninstall and power off" command. Once I swapped out the old GPU for the new one and powered up, I noticed only the CPU red light appeared on the motherboard, while fans spun and RAM LEDs lit up. The system had been stable for weeks, running hard without crashes, yet this flickering persisted. I tried reinstalling the RX 3060 again, but the red light stayed. I disabled the graphics card, removed the RAM, SSD, and even attempted to reset the CMOS by shorting pins as instructed in the manual—still only the CPU light remained. After cleaning the CPU, re-seating it, disconnecting all cables, and reconnecting everything, the red CPU indicator persisted. The motherboard didn’t show any RAM-related lights when nothing was connected, just the CPU glow. I’ve tried various fixes, including swapping to a different motherboard, but still can’t resolve the issue. Here are the specifications: CPU – AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D 4.2 GHz, 8-core; Cooler – Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE 66.17 CFM; Motherboard – MSI MAG X670E TOMAHAWK WIFI ATX AM5; RAM – TEAMGROUP T-Force Delta RGB 32 GB (2×16 GB), DDR5-6400 CL32; Storage – Samsung 990 Pro; Video Card – XFX Speedster MERC 310 Radeon RX 7900 XT 20 GB; Power Supply – EVGA SuperNOVA 850 G+ 850 W, 80+ Gold certified. I’ve read suggestions to replace the CMOS battery instead of just pin-jumping, but MSI’s design makes it tricky to remove without force. I documented the CPU and motherboard connections for reference. I purchased the motherboard refurbished from a trusted repair shop, so any misalignment should have been present when it worked properly. Regarding the CPU, I’m unsure if discoloration was present initially or if it pointed to prior damage. Since these were the components I received, replacing them might be challenging if the problem is confirmed. Anyone have suggestions on how to proceed? Or am I stuck? – Edited February 17, 2025 by thesilverderp (corrected spelling)**
From what I observe, the CPU appears undamaged externally. A minor discoloration could be typical, particularly if the unit was previously used. Regarding the CPU indicator, please verify that the EPS power cables are properly seated in their connectors. Since you've used a GPU removal/reinstallation, it's possible the cable became slightly loose. If this doesn't resolve the problem, consider disconnecting the PSU entirely and reconnecting all cables. Should you have a different PSU available, testing with that might help. Stay tuned for further advice. Good luck!
I am glad to hear that its likely not damaged, and its some other issue. I must have forgotten to mention it, but one of the first things I did was made sure the cpu cable was plugged all the way into the motherboard. I also did try removing and replugging the cpu and motherboard cable a few days ago, but no luck. I unfortunately dont own a second psu, but I do have to buy a new one eventually since the current one doesnt actually fit into the current case, but thats a separate issue. I have 2 cpu power connector slots on the motherboard. Should I try plugging into the other one or both of them at once ? It ran with just one before, but maybe it would help?
You now have another justification to purchase one that suits your setup. It's perfectly fine to connect two EPS (CPU power) ports simultaneously. I don't recall the exact power output of either port, but both are necessary for a Ryzen 9 processor. A Ryzen 7 7800X3D consumes more power than a Ryzen 5 7600, though I'm unsure when the second EPS port becomes essential. For peace of mind, you can connect them without concern. Just confirm they are indeed EPS connectors. PCIe ports resemble each other but differ in pin configuration. Have a great day!
It looks like you're facing an issue with your power supply unit (PSU). You mentioned it might be the only one included, possibly lost or damaged. You're considering testing it in an older PC to see if it powers on, which could help determine if the problem is with the PSU itself. If that doesn't work, you might want to explore other troubleshooting steps like checking connections, testing with a different PSU, or consulting the manufacturer's support resources.
I tested it on my old PC, and unless I’ve forgotten how to assemble computers completely—which is possible given how frustrating this has been—I also found my PSU isn’t working. The other machine is showing a VGA error even though the GPU is removed, which doesn’t make much sense since I have integrated graphics in the CPU. So it seems there might be an issue with the PSU itself or one of the cables. I didn’t consider that as a possibility at first, but I guess I’ll go ahead and buy a new PSU anyway and hope it fixes things. To be safe, I tried connecting the PSU directly to the wall instead of through my surge protector, which suggests the problem might be with the connection.
Connecting to the wall might indicate the surge protector failed. Though uncommon, this can occur. The VGA indicator issue could stem from a faulty PSU, leading to strange behavior like false alarms or failure to boot. I’m confident a replacement PSU will resolve these problems. Even with the cost, swapping it out is the most affordable fix for today’s PC. Have a great day!