GTX 750 screen issues appear consistently during BIOS mode, while the hardware functions properly on other systems.
GTX 750 screen issues appear consistently during BIOS mode, while the hardware functions properly on other systems.
Hello, I'm helping you fix a PC issue for your friend. The system uses an AM2-based machine from 2009 with all original parts, including a motherboard (ASUS M4A78-AM) that has built-in graphics and only D-SUB video output. The BIOS is from 2010, and the PSU is a generic 500W unit. He found a GTX 750ti second-hand for about 20EUR, and the card doesn’t need extra power connectors. There’s only one PCIe 2.0 x16 slot on the motherboard. Despite testing with different PSUs, the display freezes after about 15-20 seconds during boot. He also tried using VGA output on the GPU, which worked in other systems. It seems the problem might be related to insufficient power delivery from the motherboard for the PCIe 2.0 slot, or possibly a compatibility issue with this specific card.
It might indicate a problem with the motherboard itself, preventing it from supplying power to the PCIe port. The GT 1030 needs less power, and using an external cable for your graphics card could help. It's hard to tell whether the issue is with the board or just the slot—searching online shows the M4A78-AM only has regular PCIe slots, meaning a single slot might not fit unless you cut into the back.
I can also verify that a GPU running on external power functions correctly, but I cautioned against using it since he connected it via a single SATA to 6-pin adapter to ensure compatibility. That’s why he opted for this card instead. It seems the motherboard might be the problem, as there aren’t many ways to modify BIOS settings. I can only adjust GPU boot order priorities depending on the integrated graphics and available slots.
It's time for your colleague to upgrade to a new machine. Given how outdated this device is and the potential motherboard problems, it makes no sense to attempt anything with it. Particularly when they're planning to add a GPU for gaming; unless they're running games that match the hardware, it'll be a tough situation. A more modern setup such as a Dell Optiplex or HP Prodesk would work well with the 750Ti and is available at reasonable prices today. I've spotted 8th and 9th generation i5 and i7 models for around $100 or less for a full system. The 12th and 13th gen models cost between $200 and $400. There are far better alternatives than relying on an AM2 platform from 2009.
This also happens; I often notice others attempting to manipulate discussions.