Problem with the new PC not starting.
Problem with the new PC not starting.
Hi everyone, I attempted to put together my new PC: Intel Core Ultra 7 265K, MSI Z890 Gaming Plus WiFi, MSI MAG A750GL II 750W 80 Plus Gold PCIe5.1, and PATRIOT Viper Venom 32GB (2x16GB) at 6000MHz. It doesn’t boot properly. When I power it on, the fans begin spinning, the CPU red LED flashes briefly, then the yellow DDR LED appears for a few seconds, and the PC remains on for about 20 seconds before restarting repeatedly. On screen, nothing shows up except the CPU status, and neither does the iGPU nor the B580 GPU. I tried reseating RAM, using only one stick, switching slots, checking cables, re-seating the CPU, updating BIOS, and resetting CMOS. I suspect the issue is with the RAM or possibly the CPU/motherboard, but I’m unsure how to pinpoint it without more parts. Can anyone suggest further steps? Thanks for your help.
1. Are you able to reach the BIOS settings?
2. If you can access the BIOS, did you increase your RAM speed or used XMP settings?
3. When you connect to the BIOS, did you verify that the RAM matches your motherboard?
4. Is your CPU properly secured and functioning correctly? You should confirm compatibility by comparing the RAM SKU with the motherboard’s list on the manufacturer’s site. I experienced issues with RAM mismatches, especially with AMD boards—consider checking their compatibility page. You can review the RAM compatibility list here: https://www.msi.com/Motherboard/Z890-GAM...upport#mem
How long do you allow it to continue? It might be memory training, which can require a significant amount of time—sometimes even minutes. This occurs before the motherboard connects the keyboard and mouse, etc. That makes sense. Turn it on and let it run for 5 to 10 minutes. What results? Since nothing you specify is incompatible in any way, QVL is just a sample list; they can't cover everything. However, all RAM is generally built similarly, so it should function. I mean, it's simply 6000MT/s RAM from one of three manufacturers.
I’ve experienced two of four RAM slots failing on my motherboard because the CPU wasn’t seated correctly. I’d start by re-seating the CPU first, then proceed as suggested. Also, double-check that the RAM modules are compatible.
I don't have access to BIOS settings. I can try using a USB stick with the BIOS flasher and the reset button, but that's already been done. I also re-seated the CPU again, yet it didn't resolve the issue. Checked for bent pins, everything looks fine. The RAM isn't listed in the supported list, though I thought it should still function. I keep running it for 10-20 minutes each time, but the problem persists. After several reboots, it just stays on without any indicator lights.
Usually the issue revolves around RAM. While it sounds like it should function based on specifications, the reality is more complicated. The problem lies in DIMM compatibility, which has become a concerning trend in the market. It's best to stick with the officially approved options.
This behavior was consistent in DDR4, but I noticed instability with DDR5—especially on AMD systems. It seems this could be the root cause. I've had a relatively smooth experience: my timings were 30-36-36 and supported variants were 30-40-40. My PC started up fine, though it would occasionally freeze or crash completely during heavy tasks. One thing stood out in the BIOS: "undefined 4600 MT/s." Switching to a compatible RAM SKU resolved the problem and everything now works perfectly. I recommend trying it on Amazon for supported RAM and consider returning it if the issue persists.
Ensure all components are compatible so the system functions properly and the PC operates correctly.
I exchanged the previous RAM, and it seems it was already marked as a return item (now I realize an open package should have raised a warning). I’ll purchase more trustworthy (and officially backed) RAM. My idea is the KINGSTON Fury Renegade 32GB (2x16) at 6400MHz. One final question: can I still add another set of identical kits to reach 64GB? The support list indicates it’s possible, but only for 4x kits—only four DIMMs are listed.