Issues with starting a mysterious PC
Issues with starting a mysterious PC
One morning I woke up and my computer failed to start. In BIOS I realized it wasn’t identifying my HDD anymore (the only storage device). I upgraded to an internal M.2 SSD and managed to install it successfully (BIOS now recognizes it).
Later, I used a USB stick with the Windows Media Creation tool (for Windows 10) to begin a fresh Windows installation on the SSD. The process went smoothly until it abruptly froze around two minutes into the setup. I’m certain it froze completely because there was no response from my keyboard’s caps lock indicator. No retries have resolved this problem.
I then attempted another installation using a different USB drive and a new USB port, installing Windows 10 again. The situation remained unresolved; it appears to be constantly changing, preventing it from progressing beyond the boot screen. Now it only displays my motherboard logo and the BIOS setup menu, never reaching the rotation dots. I reinserted the HDD, and the small light seems to function normally during idle time. Interestingly, the caps lock light is fully responsive, suggesting it isn’t frozen.
Pressing F2/DEL to enter BIOS didn’t work—it stays on the boot screen and eventually crashes into the “American Megatrends” screen where I have to press F1 to return to BIOS. This is the only way I can access BIOS at the moment.
My friends who are tech-savvy suggested it might be a motherboard or RAM issue. However, since I can’t get past BIOS, diagnosing further becomes difficult. The BIOS correctly identifies my USB, SSD, keyboard, and mouse—no other problems appear to exist.
Since everything is new, the system keeps restarting. It powers on normally, fans spin, and shuts down quickly with a brief “click.” This behavior has been consistent but not problematic; just something I need to note.
The key specifications are:
- CPU: i7-9700k (never overclocked)
- GPU: 1070ti “Duke” (“Duke” model, no overclocking, works well)
- MOBO: TUF Z390 Gaming Plus Wifi
- RAM: Ripjaw 2x 8GB (16GB total, no issues)
- HDD: Barracuda 2TB
- SSD: 2TB new (black brand)
I’m reaching out for any advice or assistance at this stage. I have several tests and projects ahead and need to resolve this issue as soon as possible. Thank you!
PSU: details about the device such as make, model, power rating, age, condition (original to build, new, refurbished, used), and whether it has been used heavily for gaming.
History of heavy gaming use?
As a first step, replace the CMOS battery.