Restart the power supply to activate the computer.
Restart the power supply to activate the computer.
Greg Salazar shares numerous YouTube tutorials on troubleshooting non-functioning computers. He’s a top resource for diagnosing hardware problems. If you need guidance, his videos are highly recommended. Key tips include resetting BIOS settings by clearing CMOS, checking for physical damage to RAM, ensuring proper placement of memory modules, verifying processor connections, and confirming thermal paste application. Also, inspect cooler tightness and consider processor alignment if issues persist. Watching his channel can provide valuable insights.
The machine operates post and functions occasionally, sometimes failing entirely. Occasionally it starts normally. The periods when it stops require switching the PSU power off and back on after about three seconds, and the system powers up without issues. I haven’t noticed this issue in his videos. I’ve reset the CMOS, but the problem persists. Recently it booted fine, though I had to perform a power cycle to get it running. I haven’t updated the BIOS yet. (Based on elimination, other factors are ruled out. I’m cautious about BIOS updates since changes can be unpredictable.) I’ve replaced and reinserted RAM sticks, but the first one is still problematic. Only when using one stick does it work, but I’m unsure if that matters. The M.UI site confirmed my RAM details, and the motherboard and RAM are compatible.
It seems the issue might be related to the SIO chip. The SIO manages startup, power-on, sleep modes, and wake-up functions. You can test the voltage on your power button pins—ideally one should read 3-3.3 volts and the other should act as ground. Using a screwdriver, jump the two pins to boot up the PC, then verify the 3v pin again. If it still reads as ungrounded, an SIO problem is likely.
I never considered this before. It's something I can try by jumping pins and checking their readings. One pin should show 3 to 3.3 while the other stays at ground level. I'd use a screwdriver to power up the PC and verify the pin again to confirm it reads 3V. If it appears grounded, it might indicate an SIO issue. Never thought about doing this before—I'll test it and follow up.