Checking if the GPU or software is the problem after testing all components.
Checking if the GPU or software is the problem after testing all components.
The old hp model includes an AS# 656846-002 motherboard with a second generation Intel GPU. We purchased the system many years ago with a GTX 450. To upgrade, I upgraded with an 1660 Super and a 550 watt PSU. After installing the new components, the boot screen appeared and stayed there, eventually producing a beep followed by three short beeps. Initially, I searched online for memory issues and confirmed the RAM was seated properly. Later, after double-checking, it was noted that the problem might relate to the GPU or PSU. Testing the PSU and GPU in my own PC both alone and together showed everything functioning correctly, indicating the hardware is sound.
I tried running the 1660 Ti in the HP system; the first boot went straight to Windows but froze, requiring a restart to return to the boot screen and beeps. I also read that outdated GPU firmware could cause problems, so I removed the GTX 450 firmware (the latest version supported was 391.xx, while we are at around 591.xx) to test booting with default drivers, but it didn’t work.
The motherboard uses PCIe 2.0, which should support the cards, though performance would be limited. During troubleshooting, I noticed consistent results whether the 8-pin connector was connected or not. I’m curious if there’s a BIOS setting to enable primary card power directly from the GPU.
Just to confirm, the system was functioning with the 450 graphics card prior to the PSU and video card upgrades. Did it operate normally before those changes?
Hey there,
Many older mobos aren't compatible with modern GPUs. Does the BIOS have a legacy/UEFI setting for GPU? This would fix the problem. You might need to upgrade the BIOS to support a newer GPU. From past discussions here, it's common that the maximum supported GPUs are from the GTX9xxx series.
prebuild hp motherboards are generally poor for upgrades, often offering very few choices in the bios. The processor should be quite outdated—probably from the sandy/ivy generation. A dual core i3 or a quad core i5 with a locked multiplier would work. If I were you, I’d skip that board and chip and check second-hand stores. For instance, I found a gigabyte z370 aorus gaming k3 paired with an intel core i5-8600k for around 100 dollars. Similar or slightly pricier options exist for a ryan 3600 + b450 motherboard, often including two 16gb ram modules and a cooler. A quick three-minute search in my area would have been enough. Overall performance at 1080p would be significantly better, even with a low-end card like the 1660ti. You could also purchase a new 512gb m.2 drive for 30 dollars or a 1tb one for 50-60 dollars, and a used atx case for about 15 dollars, making it possible to play older games and some newer titles.
You probably have an older BIOS setup.
It should be black-and-white with text-based layout.
UEFI will appear in color and web-friendly style.
Newer cards such as the GTX1660 need a UEFI BIOS to recognize them.
The transition began around the GTX 7xx line. The GTX750ti could be compatible.