Restart system and choose correct boot source
Restart system and choose correct boot source
I haven’t attempted to start Windows without a graphics card.
I removed and reinserted the SSD several times.
I reset the BIOS to its default configuration, but I’m unsure how to reset the CMOS on the motherboard.
Honestly, I’m not sure where it stands.
I have another laptop nearby, though I can’t locate it.
Here’s a revised version of your instructions:
Begin by disconnecting all devices and removing the CMOS battery. Replace it with the coin cell battery you mentioned, holding it for 10-15 seconds before reinserting. When prompted, simply confirm the BIOS reset without entering it. If the system boots normally, try booting from the GPU first. If that fails, remove the graphics card and attempt to start there. If neither works, leave the GPU in and connect the SSD to a different SATA port on your motherboard. Plugging it back in won’t help if the port or controller is damaged. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, consider whether your motherboard itself may be faulty. Unless you used a custom VBIOS, tools like Afterburner shouldn’t cause permanent harm. Since you attempted to adjust BIOS settings for fun, it’s likely you didn’t install a custom one. However, if you purchased the card secondhand, the previous owner might have done so. More likely, the problem lies with your Windows installation being altered by the GPU failure. Fortunately, there are resources available for fixing Windows 10 issues.
Goddammit I can't believe I didn't think of this: your boot order. Reboot the PC, press F12, and on the screen when it asks which drive to boot to, select your Windows drive. Do that before anything else, because if it's just the boot order, this just became really easy
I also attempted to start from the SSD where your Windows is installed.
Review the remaining items you shared. If this doesn’t fit, try installing the SSD in another system to check boot functionality. If it fails, the issue likely lies with your Windows setup. If it works, the motherboard may be faulty, though I remain unconvinced. Afterburner cannot force the card’s VBIOS past its safe voltage limits.