Is the CPU or motherboard causing issues?
Is the CPU or motherboard causing issues?
Hello everyone, I was assembling a PC using some of my old components. Everything functioned properly before, and I kept them in their original boxes. When trying to boot the system, I encountered no display or beep codes, though all fans and lights operated normally. The power supply passed testing in another build, so I’m at a bit of a standstill. Do anyone have any advice or insights?
I’ve tried the following:
- Only the monitor, power supply, keyboard, and mouse were connected, removed, reinserted, and reassembled with at least four components.
- Replaced the RAM multiple times, including using a single stick.
- Removed the graphics card and attempted to run with integrated graphics (HDMI only).
- Used different HDMI cables.
- Disconnected all RAM modules to see if any beep sounds came through (I heard three short beeps).
- Cleared CMOS and changed the CMOS battery.
- Unplugged both hard drives (SATA and power).
At this stage, I suspect the CPU might be dead, but I’m not sure how to proceed with troubleshooting. It’s my first time dealing with this issue, so any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
Build details:
Motherboard: ASRock Z270 Killer
RAM: 2x 8GB Corsair Dominators
CPU: Intel Core i5-7600K (3.80GHz)
GPU: MSI Twin Frozr 7 1660 Ti
PSU: CoolerMaster G550M
Update #1: Placed one RAM stick in the B1 slot, third slot, and it booted to BIOS! I also tried the other stick, which worked. However, when using two sticks, it didn’t display anything. I usually set RAM sticks for dual memory on A2_B2, but that didn’t work either. It seems this might be a BIOS setting issue. This hasn’t happened before :/
The frequent issue with bent pins relates to RAM problems.
There is no dual channel and the RAM slot isn't working properly.
The roles of each pin are unclear.
If the chip functions correctly otherwise, continue using it.
The pins become bent if the chip isn't dropped smoothly.
PSU: CoolerMaster G550M
What is the age of your PSU in this setup?
Mobo: ASRock z270 killer
Which model of the motherboard do you have?
You might want to use an eraser to remove the gold contacts on the RAM sticks, clean them from any residue, and then reinsert them into slots A2 and B2. Start with slot A2 before moving to B2. Have you experimented with a different RAM kit? Did you check the socket for any bent or damaged pins? How are you managing the processor cooling?
The ability to boot with just one stick implies your CPU is functioning properly.
Memory-related problems usually stem from a misaligned pin in the CPU socket.
It’s quite simple if you had to move the CPU to secure it.
Remove the CPU and examine the pins carefully.
A bent pin can typically be pushed back into position using a needle.
Thanks for the update, the PSU came from a friend and he isn't very confident about it. It was still working until I used it during the build, so I double-checked by plugging it into another build with similar power needs—no problems there. MOBO is a killer SLI/AC setup. I'm cooling the CPU with an air cooler, AK400 DeepCool, but I don't have another RAM kit with me. After examining the CPU socket more closely, it looks like one of the pins might be bent or missing. Anyone think this is fixable? Also, here are some pictures of the socket.
Right now, I'm considering using just one channel. I'm concerned that the broken pin might impact other functions too. I haven't found the pinout for the socket, but should I go ahead and run it anyway? It seems like a reasonable option since the device won't be under heavy use—just for my younger brother who mainly plays games with it.
The frequent issue with bent pins relates to RAM problems.
There are no dual channels and the RAM slots aren't working properly.
It's unclear what each pin does.
If the chip functions correctly, continue using it.
Pins become bent if the chip isn't dropped smoothly.
Thank you all for your assistance! The issue turned out to be the missing pin as you recommended. Using ChatGPT to clarify the LGA1151 pin layout shows that the A1 and A2 channels are affected and aren't working well. I installed the RAM sticks on B1 and B2, though not in the best way. Do you think it's better to use both or stick with one? Thanks again for your support—my computer is now working properly.