Purchased a refurbished MSI X399 motherboard and Threadripper 1950X. Debug LED on the CPU is illuminated.
Purchased a refurbished MSI X399 motherboard and Threadripper 1950X. Debug LED on the CPU is illuminated.
I recently acquired a used Threadripper 1950X and an MSI X399 GAMING PRO CARBON AC motherboard. I carefully checked both components and noticed that only one pin on the CPU socket appeared slightly bent. The motherboard powers on but fails to boot, and it displays a 00 error code on the debug LED 7-segment display. After trying several troubleshooting steps—replugging CPU power, ATX power, and PCIE cables—I’ve re-seated all four RAM sticks (confirming the correct 4 DIMM setup) and returned both items. The seller mentioned a 20% restocking fee if the motherboard works after replacement. Since I don’t have another Threadripper to test, I’m unsure whether the issue lies with the CPU or the motherboard. The bent pin is present, but I’m not sure if it’s the root cause. Could you share more photos of the CPU socket? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
I’d definitely straighten that pin, use a PIN/NEEDLE and just gently push it into position... from what I see, there’s likely another pin a bit off, maybe even more since the photo doesn’t show all pins clearly. The circle is your original, the square (kind of) is the other pin I’d suggest replacing. If you haven’t already, try using just a single RAM stick. I recently got a used x399 gaming with a 1900x and ran into some memory issues—it wasn’t on the QVL, so maybe check the rear of the board for any misplaced components. For testing, boot with just the heatsink on the chip instead of screwing it into the socket (just for testing).
I've been working outside of the case all day. I tried using two sticks, but it didn't make much difference. I removed the CPU to check and believe a pin might have been missing from the start, though I'm not sure. I could share a clearer photo if it helps, but it's hard to get a sharp one from close range.
OK had another look at that photo, you could be right there might be a pin missing? as I don't have the board in front of me to really look cannot say for certain, but where you originally identified the bent pin, there does look to be possibly a gap? hard to say. try and get a closer look at that area and see if the is a void where a pin should be, if that is the case return the board on that basis, regardless if they then get it to work etc
The next step would be to dedicate 30 minutes inspecting each pin that was misaligned and gently realigning them.
they are capable too. i've managed to adjust the setup a bit and get things back to normal, but upon closer inspection (good job!), i think another attempt from the pin's front position would help. it might take some time, but it could improve accuracy. however, i'm unsure if the pin is positioned correctly enough to reach the cpu pad—if not, it might be the root cause. without knowing the pin's purpose, it's hard to rule out its importance in starting up. the best way to confirm would be comparing with another board or chip.
Did you spot a straightening on the other pin? Have you adjusted the RAM, placed half of each combination in, checked the BIOS/default settings, and ensured the heatsink isn’t just tightened? I remember there was a concern about pressure on the socket, so I’d definitely test all those setups.