PC fails to detect RAM modules and cannot boot via BIOS.
PC fails to detect RAM modules and cannot boot via BIOS.
I own this system with a processor of i5-12600k (10 cores, 4.9GHz), an MSI Pro Z690-A motherboard, DDR5 memory, and a 2TB Teamgroup Silver SSD. The graphics card is a Gigabyte RTX 4060 with 8GB RAM. My power supply is an MSI 850W unit, and I run Windows 11 Home.
Since January, my PC has performed well without major problems. However, after buying two more 16GB RAM sticks recently, the machine wouldn’t boot at all. After removing them, it started working normally. I checked my specs and found only 16GB of RAM installed—despite having two sticks. I tried different configurations in the slots, but the motherboard still didn’t recognize certain slots. I double-checked everything: proper seating, correct settings, and even used the Delete key during boot.
I suspect this might be a BIOS compatibility issue. Before updating, I looked into forums and found that some users reported similar problems. I’m unsure what to do next; I’m comfortable with tech but not experienced in hardware troubleshooting. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Have you checked each stick separately to verify individual performance? Consider turning off XMP settings; having four RAM modules can sometimes cause problems. They may struggle with the CPU's memory controller and could run slower than expected. Whenever you can, share more information about your RAM setup—such as using CPU-Z—to help assess compatibility. Even with matching frequencies and latency, minor differences in chips can affect results. Try pressing the key quickly instead of keeping it pressed.
Thank you for your feedback. Each stick boots separately when positioned in the second RAM slot from the left. I attempted to use the delete key repeatedly; it might have helped since my PC didn’t boot into Windows, but neither monitor received a signal and both went into standby after a short time. I stopped waiting after about ten minutes. I have an Acer monitor connected via DisplayPort and an Asus monitor via HDMI. I tried swapping the cables without success. While looking up XMP settings, it seems disabling requires booting into BIOS, which I’m currently unable to do. Do you have another method? I’ll download CPU-Z and let you know what I find.
Connecting the monitor cables to the motherboard was successful. I’m currently running in BIOS and can view the BIOS interface on my display. I’ll attempt to turn off XMP settings next.
Bios menu included. The XMP profiles aren't active; selecting either option makes it white and looks chosen. Also, keep in mind you currently have two RAM modules on your motherboard (DIMMA2 and DIMMB1), but only DIMMA2 is recognized there.
It seems one of the memory slots might be faulty. For two sticks they should be placed in A2 and B2, not A2 and B1. Refer to the manual on page 14 for details. I’d consider a BIOS update, as version 7D25vAG indicates better memory compatibility.
You're facing a BIOS registration issue with your motherboard. It seems the B1 stick swap didn't work, and you're considering updating to the latest BIOS version (7D25vAI1(Beta)) or the older 7D25vAG. If the memory channel is faulty, it might mean the chip isn't communicating properly—this could affect performance or stability. Replacing the motherboard might be necessary if the problem persists, but there are also software fixes and hardware checks you can try first.