Discussing AM4 upgrades
Discussing AM4 upgrades
Hello everyone, I’ll keep it brief. I upgraded my 3600 with a 5700X as a drop-in for my B550 Tomahawk (already updated to the latest 7C91vAB). I applied thermal paste correctly and checked all connections. After booting, I reached setup via F1 but my keyboard was off—Windows took over. The intro screen stuttered on Windows 10, so I shut it down and tried BIOS access. When I restarted, the CPU lights flickered between the CPU and DRAM. I removed the CPU to inspect pins, found everything fine, and reinserted both RAM and the board. Still stuck with a black screen and the CPU light on.
I’ve tried several fixes:
1. Switched back to the old 3600—same problem.
2. Tested each RAM stick individually; issue persisted.
3. Used a different GPU from my wife’s PC; still stuck.
4. Tried another GPU with BIOS flashback on USB sticks (2.0 & 3.0, fat32).
5. Swapped coolers; same result.
6. Updated motherboard and PSU; nothing worked.
I’ve also considered a new board or different power supply, but no extra parts are available. I ordered a new motherboard now, hoping it will resolve the issue. Still stuck on the CPU light and black screen.
Things I’ve done:
- Reverted to 3600—same outcome.
- Tested multiple RAM modules.
- Used alternate GPUs and PSUs.
- Followed BIOS flashback steps carefully.
- Checked cooling solutions.
I’m not sure if the CPU is faulty, but I’m worried it might be damaged. I’ll keep trying until I find a fix. Thanks for your help!
Never forget to reset the CMOS between changes in CPU selection. This ensures the BIOS returns to its original configuration.
I've tried this multiple times, both with and without the battery. I used a flathead jumper for at least 30 seconds but didn't get any results. On MSI's forum, they suggested trying it while the PC is powered on—keep the jumper in place during boot and remove it after about five seconds. I'm worried it might damage the board, so I'm cautious. EDIT: I just rechecked your message and realized I didn't actually clear the board after installing the new CPU. Could that have caused it to fail?
I wouldn't attempt this on my own system to test the shorting method. Verify your CPU EPS power cable is making good contact. I was thinking about trying a single stick at a time, but it seems you've already done that. Did you also try with your 3600?
It's definitely tougher to destroy CPUs compared to a motherboard. For the faulty motherboard, a CH341a programmer is required to reset the BIOS on the chip.
This task depends on your expertise level. If you're unsure, start with basic steps and seek guidance as needed.
You might want to give it a shot now since the board seems likely to be non-functional. There are online guides and YouTube videos you can follow to try reprogramming it. Unfortunately, I’m not familiar with this process because I haven’t encountered it before. Someone with prior experience would probably be able to assist.
Also, remember that if you decide to return the board (RMA), take photos of it and its serial number to avoid getting the same one again. I’ve noticed discussions about this happening in forums for MSI models.