Computer needs multiple tries to launch, but the keyboard isn't functioning for the Windows repair?
Computer needs multiple tries to launch, but the keyboard isn't functioning for the Windows repair?
It's not only the screw but also the m.2 heat sink, as shown in the motherboard manufacturer's image. Because the manual didn't specify the board layout, I wasn't certain whether the heat sink was intended to hold the m.2 drives or if separate screws were used. If you're only checking the drives themselves, there should be a mounting standoff for the m.2 screw at the end of the drive where the connector plugs in. That's where the m.2 screw is meant to go. It can be tricky to reach the standoff unless you use a mildly magnetic screwdriver, as a slight wobble might push the 3mm screw into the microverse and make it vanish before your eyes. I spent some time trying to locate it by hand, searching for the screw and pulling it out with pliers multiple times before finally getting it. A magnetic screwdriver is the best option, especially if you're not used to handling m.2 screws carefully.
Thanks...well that's the interesting question....does the heat sink just secure it? That is what I did last time I opened it up there..there was the tiny sticky material (whatever it is called) that sits in a thin strip above the nvme..and then the heat sink screwed on top.
I did notice there is a spot for a screw there though.
I just went down to a local pc store and got a whole bunch of screws..with minute differences between them all!
However in an update (literally) I managed to get Windows to update to versui 25H2...and interestingly it now has booted straight back up...the jury is still out a little as to whether that is permanent fix or not.
I'm now not sure whether I risk opening the whole case up again and try to put that srew in there...given I also have the potential to accidently break something else in the process or drop the screw into the bowels of the Mobo...because I find it so fiddly.
Do I risk putting the screw back?
Do I just see how I go for a whle?
Anyway..thanks so much to you and all the others here for the great support to a 'stranger' really appreciate it! There are still all those other fixes I could try...and in addition I wonder whether the 'update' now means I could run Windows repair from a stick.
best to secure the drive to the standoff with the power off & mains disconnected first. That wobble is likely what caused the drive boot error.
The retention mechanism of the drive connector is spring loaded on my board and the drive needs to be depressed and secured flat with the screw otherwise it's improperly installed. That ensures proper contact with the connector. At the business end of the nvme drives are lil conductive gold fingers. They're gold plated to ensure signal integrity to the connector.
It's a thermal pad on the underside of the heatsink which is slightly tacky but not glue like you'd find on a sticker. Made of silicone or something like it to transfer heat from the drive to the heatsink.
That's just to keep them within operational temps. and prevent thermal throttling particularly under load.
The drives can operate without the heat sink but it should usually be present because it's better to stay cooler. Hi performance drives are much more likely to overheat without it.
So that's the lowdown on that. For sorting the right screw from the bunch, use a ruler. 3mm.
However, it must also be narrow enough to go into the m.2 standoff. Say this because, I have a pci-e nvme controller besides my onboard one since my old system needed it. That sports a larger m.2 screw which is easier to handle.
So I can see how you might've ended up with a variety of screws. They exist. If you have to, measure the diameter of the standoff with a short ruler and then the diameter of the screw thread.
Least you'll know the screw can fit the standoff. The fatter screw from my pci-e card doesn't go into the mobo m.2 standoff.
You'll have to resort to science.
Reminded David about the assistance provided. I recall inserting that screw during the initial assembly, unsure if it was my action or the shopperson's oversight. Another possibility is to check the screw from the alternative drive, assuming they are identical. Thanks for your support and the clarification! I'm ready to proceed with the investigation.