Front panel power switch connection is triggering the CPU and DRAM LEDs in a repeated pattern
Front panel power switch connection is triggering the CPU and DRAM LEDs in a repeated pattern
PCPartPicker list of components: https://uk.pcpartpicker.com/list/sXsyMb CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 7700X 4.5 GHz 8-Core (£314.00 @ Amazon UK) CPU cooler: Noctua NH-U12A 60.09 CFM (£109.95 @ Amazon UK) Motherboard: Gigabyte X670 GAMING X AX (rev. 1.0) ATX AM5 (£284.99 @ MoreCoCo) RAM: G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR5-6000 CL36 (£173.01 @ Newegg UK) Storage: Kingston KC3000 2.048 TB M.2-2280 PCIe 4.0 X4 NVME SSD (£145.00 @ MoreCoCo) Graphics card: MSI RTX 4090 VENTUS 3X 24G OC GeForce RTX 4090 24 GB (£1685.00 @ Computer Orbit) Case: Lian Li LANCOOL III ATX Mid Tower (£149.00 @ Computer Orbit) Power supply: be quiet! Straight Power 11 1000 W 80+ Platinum Certified Fully Modular ATX (£225.53 @ Amazon UK) Monitor: Gigabyte M28U 28.0" 3840 x 2160 144 Hz (£555.00 @ Computer Orbit) Overall cost: £3641.48 Inclusions: shipping, taxes, and available discounts Generated by PCPartPicker 2023-03-17 17:47 GMT+0000
Recently assembled the setup two days prior; noticed CPU and memory indicators flash one after another while the system didn’t start. At first I tried troubleshooting—rechecking connections, performing CMOS reset, breadboarding—but the issue persisted. When front panel connectors were properly aligned, the PC booted normally, yet lights only activated when the panels were joined. The power button worked fine with the panel connected, suggesting correct wiring, but the DRAM and CPU indicators remained inactive until connected. I tested various positions of the front panel connectors, but the left-side slot appeared intact according to the manual. I inspected the motherboard for bent pins in the connector area, finding none. It’s unclear if the problem lies with the board or another factor entirely.
Images: connection and power switch photos; motherboard manual PDF; Lian Li LANCOOL III manual.
It seems like this power switch has an unusual design. You're right—it should only have two wires, but it looks off. Plus, it arrives in a solid brick, which is different from most motherboard front panel headers you see. Things like reset, power, and HDD LEDs vary across boards.
It's unclear why it looks this way. Previous builds used different front panel connectors, while Lian Li’s design is unique. It might be that the case and motherboard aren’t compatible because there aren’t enough available wires.
According to the manual, the power switch, LED, and reset button are all combined. I attempted to start the PC using a screwdriver on the power switch connections, but it didn’t boot at all—holding the screwdriver kept it in boot mode. This suggests a possible issue with the motherboard.
Absolutely, just snap the two pins together swiftly using a flat-head pin. Keeping them connected won’t change the result—holding the power button in place without releasing is the same.
I understand your concern. You're worried about damaging the case by opening it, and you're looking for alternative options. Let me know if you'd like help exploring other solutions. Thank you for your feedback!
It might be incorrect, but this approach seems to be gaining traction. My previous two cases had the fpanel header in that manner, and they each included a distinct connector for further separation if required. I suggest @sksa review the contents of the case to confirm whether such a step was necessary before modifying the header.
I searched for that item but didn’t find it. Lian Li doesn’t offer it. Could you share an image of what you mean? That way I can help you decide and possibly order one. Thanks!
I couldn't locate one for purchase, but it probably exists. I'll verify if your motherboard supports it and ensure it's compatible before giving further advice. I'll review your manual and adjust my reply accordingly.
The header should fit properly on your board (based on what I understand), covering the power switch, power LED, and reset functions. It should be installed to the left of the socket, with the side labeled "Power_SW" oriented upward.
Picture of the setup and the pins involved: