CPU reaches 90°C in BIOS, updated version Ryujin 2, contact frame, 13900k
CPU reaches 90°C in BIOS, updated version Ryujin 2, contact frame, 13900k
Building my new PC was the goal, but I had to pause right away. I wanted a quick check on the components before finishing my kitchen renovation, so I didn’t assemble everything yet. This helped me avoid missing the RMA deadline if any parts failed. I installed the M.2 SSD, RAM, and CPU with the Thermal Grizzly Contact Frame for the 13900k. I mounted it using the Ryujin 2 360 (pulled in, stock paste applied). Connected the CPU power pins (2x8) and MB power (24) to the motherboard, and linked the USB 2.0 header from the pump with the daisy-chained AIO fans to the CPU fan header. For testing, I plugged in my monitor via the built-in HDMI and added a basic USB mouse/keyboard to the rear I/O. Everything seemed connected properly. When I powered on, the system booted without issues and asked me to enter BIOS. I noticed the fans kicked in quickly, but the CPU temperature spiked to 88-89°C. BIOS recognized my 32GB RAM at 4000 MHz and the M.2 SSD, suggesting the frame was set up correctly. However, it felt sluggish and eventually crashed after a few minutes. After rebooting, I checked the AIO setup. The fans responded well, but the BIOS lagged. After about five minutes, the system froze and shut down. I restarted it after 20 seconds; it came back on but shut down again. Because it was late, I went to sleep. Upon waking, I inspected the AIO for proper contact and applied some thermal paste (Gelid GC Extreme). The stock paste was spread, but it seemed insufficient. I also noticed the sides had excess paste. While in BIOS, I examined the radiator fins, tubes, and noticed blown air from the fans. It felt extremely cold. Only after shutdown did I feel heat building near the pump and around the CPU area. No burning smells were detected. This left me puzzled about the problem. I plan to repaste and try again soon, but I wanted to share my thoughts for feedback. What went wrong? Was the frame installation correct? Could the AIO be faulty? Did the copper plate touch the IHS, causing uneven paste? Was the pump reading wrong due to a micro USB connection? Setup details included Z790 Maximus Hero 13900k, Thermal Grizzly frame, AIO 360, Ryujin 2, Samsung SSD, and a Dark Power Pro 12.
It seems the cooling system isn't functioning properly. As long as the pump and fans are powered on and operating, the problem likely lies with a connection or frame issue.
Took some photos of the CPU frame, but they might not be very useful. I notice the CPU seems to protrude slightly, which suggests it should touch the copper plate on the AIO. When the cooler is installed, does the CPU press down into the socket or remains stationary? If it gets pressed more, could the frame and CPU align perfectly when the cooler is in place? I think tightening the frame a bit might help.
the contact frame presses the cpu into the pins. placing a credicard or similar across it will reveal light where the frame sits, and the cpu should remain dark as expected. the frame ensures the cpu stays straight with balanced pressure on the socket. i’m skeptical about the stock cooling paste—consider using a higher-quality one. you should be able to see the contact area if you remove the ram from the side. it seems the pump wasn’t functioning well, with one tube hot and another cold. once saturated, the issue likely lies in insufficient fan cooling. for a 13900k, a custom loop with at least two 360 radiators would be advisable. i’m also hesitant about AIO solutions.
You just tried another time to install AiO and start the computer.
My friend, the hero! I’m embarrassed I missed the warning about the pump. I sensed a faint buzz on the tubes and assumed everything was fine. My anger is directed at Asus for their confusing instructions. I believed the USB 2.0 header powered everything, microUSB handled data, and the LCD was just a nice touch. Ultimately, it wasn’t a poor cooler or mount—it was my own mistake. I’m relieved I managed to install the Contact Frame correctly. Now I can finally start updating my kitchen without stress, confident my setup is solid. Thanks for all your support—have a wonderful day!
For reference when others investigate similar issues, I experienced the same while using a micro USB in the AIO fan controller box. Everything connected properly except the magnetic screen was removed. Even though one tube felt cooler or warmer than the other, the CPU kept idling at 90 degrees and overheating during BIOS updates. Only after reattaching the magnetic cover did temperatures drop by 60 degrees instantly. I also checked if the small fan was spinning and adjusting tension, but it seemed to resolve the problem.