Problem resolved: PC fails to start following PSU malfunction and extensive component replacement.
Problem resolved: PC fails to start following PSU malfunction and extensive component replacement.
I’m facing some issues. My setup includes a watercooled Ryzen 5 5700x, GeForce RTX 3070 Ti, 4-DIMMs of Kingston Hyper X 3200 DDR4, Asus ROG Strix B550-F MB, and a Corsair RM850e PSU. Previously, I had an MSI Radeon 5700XT and a Corsair 650 PSU. After switching to the RTX 3070 Ti, the system started working. About 30 minutes into a game, the PSU stopped working. There was a loud noise and a burning smell—definitely overheating electronics. My IT colleague suggested replacing just the PSU because it was the only one smelling like smoke. I swapped it for a Corsair RM850X, but only the top LED light on the B550-F would activate when I turned the PSU on, yet the computer wouldn’t start. I then replaced the motherboard, but it still wouldn’t boot. After that, I thought the graphics card might be damaged, so I upgraded to the RM850e, which also failed to power on. The only way it works is when the GPU is removed; even then it powers up briefly before shutting down. I tried connecting the old MSI GPU and got the same results. I’m really confused and don’t know what to do next. Thanks for any help.
It seems the board is compromised. I’ve experienced PSU failures and can wipe an entire system before. What could have occurred here... The PSU harmed the board, the damaged board affected the new PSU, and the new PSU got damaged again. You might also consider testing a G variant to verify the BIOS and identify any issues.
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I meant to say damaged, not fried. Boards can get harmed and still work in part. It seems there’s an issue with the PCIe connection. Ryzen models include built-in graphics that show through the motherboard. For instance, 5600 vs 5600G versus a 5600X—non-G versions lack this feature. If there’s a problem, the BIOS might have switched to using only an integrated GPU, which would account for the boot failure with a dedicated card. Therefore, testing with a G-variant could help verify the BIOS settings via the board’s display.
Consider resetting the CMOS to reset it to auto-select mode. After that, it should start the GPU normally and complete POST. However, I've noticed RAM issues leading to no-video POSTs too. It's also plausible the PSU failure might have damaged the BIOS or affected the RAM/board. Let's summarize: PSU failed, replaced, but still no boot with GPU. Motherboard and GPU were swapped in, yet no success. Without video output, are you certain it's actually POSTing? Edited February 19, 2023 by An0maly_76 Updated with more details
Reviewing your board manufacturer's compatibility list will indicate if a specific RAM SKU (part number) is suggested. RAM may function, but it isn't recommended because of stability concerns, and I haven't found any videos confirming a failed POST or a complete Windows boot without video. I would have taken the board to a local shop with an iGPU and another GPU before giving up. They can also test the RAM for independent verification. However, my issue with DIMMs worked in memtest86—it was just the board and CPU that didn't handle them well. I've also noticed that some proprietary prebuilt PCs with specific motherboards only supported certain graphics cards. Lenovo is known for this, as are a few others.