CPU lacks video output because of a problem with its PCI lanes.
CPU lacks video output because of a problem with its PCI lanes.
After several months without the PC Tower because of the VGA indicator, I’ve finally chosen to purchase a used MSI x470 gaming plus carbon. It performed perfectly for two months, which was exciting to repair. Now I’m about to complete an AMD driver update that had been waiting a week. The VGA light reappeared, and the PC stopped responding at all—only managing to reach the BIOS. Any suggestions on how to get it back online? My setup includes: MSI Gaming Plus Carbon x470, Ryzen 1600, 32GB G Skill RGB (2x3000MHz & 2x3466MHz), running RX480 SAPPHIRE Nitro Cooler Master 700w PSU. I’ve tried reseating RAM and cleaning contact points on the GPU, cleared the CMOS, reconnected the GPU cables, and even used a live Linux USB drive (though it didn’t boot from there). What should I do next?
When diagnosing issues, it's wise to steer clear of mixing different RAM sticks, especially if you're using a Ryzen 1600. Stick to the 3000MHz kit for consistency. Early Ryzen models struggled with speeds above 3200MHz, and even running stock settings doesn't guarantee stability. It seems you have two distinct GPU kits installed, which can complicate troubleshooting. Consider swapping it with another GPU if possible. If not, reseat the CPU—its PCIe lanes run directly from the slot—and inspect for any bent pins or damaged contacts in the PCIe slot or graphics card connector.
I've used it previously with the older board (MSI Gaming plus B350) and a fairly old, working GTX260. Unfortunately, it didn't work. I should be able to get another GPU in a few days, but it feels like this issue keeps happening. It seems there might be something affecting the motherboards.
I completely share your thoughts on the RAM situation. I haven't run this test with the present motherboard yet, so why not? Two months ago after swapping the MMO, it didn't appear there were any issues on the CPU side. I plan to continue testing until I acquire another GPU for evaluation. Beyond a noticeable bent or missing pin, could there be additional subtle cases where pins aren't working properly? It's interesting you bring up the CPU... perhaps that's the reason. When I disassembled the PC during troubleshooting the old motherboard, I installed the PSU, GPU, and RAM modules (just the 3000MHz ones) on another Intel system and everything functioned perfectly. On the non-working side I had only the CPU and motherboard, which likely led me to assume the motherboard was faulty too soon. In about a week I might remove the CPU and test it on a working AMD machine. This would probably give the clearest distinction between the motherboard and CPU.
Subtle harm to pins is achievable, for instance if they were ever bent and then straightened, it could lead to a partial crack forming in the pin. This might result in various complications ranging from unexpected instability to complete lack of function, or even no noticeable issue if the pin isn’t in use. The primary reason I emphasized looking for different physical problems was because your issue appears to have occurred randomly, shortly after reassembling the system (excluding the prior MB problem). This suggests a need to verify proper contact and full seating of all components, much like checking power connectors. When you can’t access BIOS and there’s uncertainty about available spare parts or systems, the advice is limited to inspecting the physical components of the setup.
Thank you for the feedback! I'll review all the links and try to pinpoint the issue. I'll update you as I go. Looking forward to testing the connection with another machine. Good luck!
Check the hard drives to determine if you can access BIOS without them connected, which will help confirm the driver you downloaded.
I've reached the point of acquiring a Ryzen 1400 and will soon run tests with another CPU. Before changing the CPU, I plan to restart the system to check if the issue remains. Although problems don't vanish instantly, I've taken the PC for a test drive. Perhaps the vibrations from the car could help if the CPU pins are the cause, allowing it to function normally again. Once I confront the situation, I'll proceed with these steps: remove the 3466MHz RAM modules, keep only the 3000MHz ones, swap the hard drives, and then install the CPU. If necessary, I might move to the third stage, since the motherboard has already been replaced.
It seems the issue was with the CPUs. When the system first booted with the Ryzen 1400, the motherboard took a moment to complete the CPU → DRAM → VGA → BOOT sequence. I saw the VGA light stay on for about three seconds before it turned off. Another thought: maybe the slightly smaller heatsink below the CPU reduces pressure on the pins? Those might be handling PCI communication. The red one (1600) appears to be broken, while the blue one (1400) is working now. The same heatsink I’m using with the 1400 looks fine, but I’m curious if it’s affecting the CPU or just the lifespan of the 1600.