F5F Stay Refreshed Hardware Desktop CPU and DRAM display rapid changes in flashing patterns

CPU and DRAM display rapid changes in flashing patterns

CPU and DRAM display rapid changes in flashing patterns

T
ThereWas
Member
137
10-28-2021, 03:37 PM
#1
Hello, everyone. Last year I assembled my PC and everything functioned properly. (https://pcpartpicker.com/list/pZL8rv) Some time later, a Windows update caused delays. I left it running overnight, but it kept booting in the morning. It turned out my system was struggling with startup. As mentioned, the CPU and memory LEDs were flashing rapidly. From then on, I could get my PC to start if I repeatedly forced a restart using the power button. After that, everything worked normally. Yesterday I attempted to install new AMD chipset drivers to resolve the issue, but now posting still fails completely. Some troubleshooting steps I tried: changing RAM placement order, using only one RAM stick at a time, clearing CMOS by shorting pins—I even tried booting without any RAM and it worked too. I’m unsure if this is typical behavior or not. Since I don’t have quality DDR5 RAM to test against (my friends still use DDR4), I’m not sure whether the problem lies with the motherboard or the RAM. Do you have any suggestions or possible causes? Thanks.
T
ThereWas
10-28-2021, 03:37 PM #1

Hello, everyone. Last year I assembled my PC and everything functioned properly. (https://pcpartpicker.com/list/pZL8rv) Some time later, a Windows update caused delays. I left it running overnight, but it kept booting in the morning. It turned out my system was struggling with startup. As mentioned, the CPU and memory LEDs were flashing rapidly. From then on, I could get my PC to start if I repeatedly forced a restart using the power button. After that, everything worked normally. Yesterday I attempted to install new AMD chipset drivers to resolve the issue, but now posting still fails completely. Some troubleshooting steps I tried: changing RAM placement order, using only one RAM stick at a time, clearing CMOS by shorting pins—I even tried booting without any RAM and it worked too. I’m unsure if this is typical behavior or not. Since I don’t have quality DDR5 RAM to test against (my friends still use DDR4), I’m not sure whether the problem lies with the motherboard or the RAM. Do you have any suggestions or possible causes? Thanks.

L
lolX20
Member
136
10-28-2021, 04:50 PM
#2
The LEDs indicating CPU or RAM status often suggest the CPU isn’t properly placed. It might have been stable before, but a slight movement could have caused it to come loose. All contact points on the bottom of the CPU travel around the motherboard, including the RAM slots, so an improper fit can prevent it from detecting RAM. Remove the cooler and take out the CPU for a thorough check. Examine the pads and pins closely to ensure nothing is bent or debris is present. It’s wise to reapply thermal paste and reassemble everything carefully, applying even pressure to secure the CPU. The same applies to the RAM—verify there are no obstructions in the slots. Regarding thermal paste, liquid metal isn’t necessary; it works well for temperature control but can sometimes leak and cause issues.
L
lolX20
10-28-2021, 04:50 PM #2

The LEDs indicating CPU or RAM status often suggest the CPU isn’t properly placed. It might have been stable before, but a slight movement could have caused it to come loose. All contact points on the bottom of the CPU travel around the motherboard, including the RAM slots, so an improper fit can prevent it from detecting RAM. Remove the cooler and take out the CPU for a thorough check. Examine the pads and pins closely to ensure nothing is bent or debris is present. It’s wise to reapply thermal paste and reassemble everything carefully, applying even pressure to secure the CPU. The same applies to the RAM—verify there are no obstructions in the slots. Regarding thermal paste, liquid metal isn’t necessary; it works well for temperature control but can sometimes leak and cause issues.

T
Texas1047
Posting Freak
889
11-02-2021, 03:13 AM
#3
You could achieve some improvement by repositioning the CPU if the memory controller connection seems uncertain
T
Texas1047
11-02-2021, 03:13 AM #3

You could achieve some improvement by repositioning the CPU if the memory controller connection seems uncertain

B
blackbeery7
Junior Member
4
11-21-2021, 01:57 PM
#4
If you're open to it, you can attempt to gently remove the CPU and reinsert it. Depending on your cooling system, you might need to reapply thermal paste. However, if neither RAM stick fits in any slot, it’s more likely the CPU or motherboard isn’t compatible. (RAM isn’t ruled out, but it’s less probable.) Also, remember to enter the PC part picker details here—some of us are too lazy to search for information on our own. Just a heads up. Edit: That’s what I received after missing the post button. Other smart folks have already shared my thoughts. So go with what they suggested.
B
blackbeery7
11-21-2021, 01:57 PM #4

If you're open to it, you can attempt to gently remove the CPU and reinsert it. Depending on your cooling system, you might need to reapply thermal paste. However, if neither RAM stick fits in any slot, it’s more likely the CPU or motherboard isn’t compatible. (RAM isn’t ruled out, but it’s less probable.) Also, remember to enter the PC part picker details here—some of us are too lazy to search for information on our own. Just a heads up. Edit: That’s what I received after missing the post button. Other smart folks have already shared my thoughts. So go with what they suggested.

J
JosephGamez
Member
141
11-25-2021, 05:24 PM
#5
Thanks for the tips! I’ve replaced the CPU and reapplied the thermal paste again (no liquid metal this time). I also cleaned out a bit of dust, but unfortunately it didn’t make a difference—the computer still won’t post.
J
JosephGamez
11-25-2021, 05:24 PM #5

Thanks for the tips! I’ve replaced the CPU and reapplied the thermal paste again (no liquid metal this time). I also cleaned out a bit of dust, but unfortunately it didn’t make a difference—the computer still won’t post.