Sound coming from the CPU area at the back of the motherboard in my new computer
Sound coming from the CPU area at the back of the motherboard in my new computer
Hi, this is Omar.
I recently purchased a new computer about a month after buying it. When I started using it, I heard a strange noise coming from the motherboard. The seller was very helpful and replaced my RTX 4070 12GB with an RTX 4070 Ti Super. After that, the issue persisted. They then upgraded my motherboard from the Asus B760 to the Asus Z790 Plus and changed my power supply to the Asus Gold model. Since then, the problem continues. I’m unsure what’s causing it.
I’ve conducted various tests and the computer now runs smoothly without any sound during gameplay. The audio appears to originate from the back of the motherboard, specifically a metal component with a grey finish. I also double-checked all the fans; when they run at high speeds, there’s no noise. This isn’t coil whine—it’s consistent regardless of the components.
I’ve tried all hardware and software adjustments in BIOS, changed CPU settings, but nothing resolved the issue. My CPU is an Intel Core i5 14600K. I’ve also checked my RAM (Lexar 32GB, 2x16 DDR5, 7200Mhz), SSD/HDD (likely a 512 NVMe M.2 SSD), GPU (RTX 4070 Ti Super), and the power supply (Asus TUF Gaming 850W Gold ATX). The operating system is Windows 11, and the monitor is an Asus TUF Gaming VG27AQL3A.
Please help me figure out what’s wrong.
Welcome to the forums, newcomer!
When sharing a troubleshooting post, it's important to provide complete system details. Please list your specifications in the following order:
CPU:
CPU cooler:
Motherboard:
Ram:
SSD/HDD:
GPU:
PSU:
Chassis:
OS:
Monitor:
Include the age of the PSU along with its make and model. Also, note the BIOS version for your motherboard at this time.
Since you've replaced components, we have two sets of specs—one before the swap and one after.
Initially, did you reinstall the operating system after changing the motherboard?
It's not coil whine; the sound remains consistent whenever I change a part.
If the noise isn't present on your end, it might be due to insufficient grounding from the wall outlet.
Another approach is to use an A4 sheet, roll it into a cylinder, and hold one end near your ear while using the other to pinpoint the sound's origin.
Moved the thread from the Components section to the Systems section.
I made changes to the specifications of my computer as you instructed.
The audio I heard comes from the motherboard near the CPU area.
The sound is identical in the seller's shop, but it sounds quieter here.
I didn't reinstall the operating system; it was updated, and it's not an old installation. I installed it from my previous computer because I use the same SSD, though this download was three months old.
Hi, this is Omar.
I recently purchased a new computer about a month after buying it. When I started using it, I heard a strange noise coming from the motherboard. The seller was very helpful and replaced my RTX 4070 12GB with an RTX 4070 Ti Super. After that, the issue persisted. They then upgraded my motherboard from Asus B760 to Asus Z790 Plus and changed my power supply to an Asus Gold model. Since then, the problem continues. I’m unsure what’s causing it.
I’ve conducted various tests and the computer now runs without sound during gameplay. The audio appears immediately when the screen goes black or when entering the menu. I’ve checked all hardware and software settings in BIOS, adjusted CPU settings, but nothing resolved the issue. Despite this, I’ve changed my CPU to an Intel Core i5 14600K, and after all this investment, the problem remains unchanged. It’s not coil whine; it’s a consistent sound every time I replace a component.
The noise originates from the back of the motherboard in the CPU area, specifically the grey-colored metal part. Also, I made sure to test all the fans—when running them at high speeds, there’s no noise. Please, could you assist me in resolving this issue?
CPU: Intel core i5 14600K
CPU cooler: Xigmatek LK 360 digital Argb AIO liquid CPU cooler
Motherboard: Asus TUF Gaming Z790 Plus Wi-Fi
RAM: Lexar Ares 32GB 2x16 DDR5 7200MHz
Storage: Likely a 512 NVMe M.2 SSD, which was important
GPU: RTX 4070 Ti Super
PSU: Asus TUF Gaming 850W Gold 80 Plus ATX 3.1 fully modular power supply
OS: Windows 11
Monitor: Asus TUF Gaming VG27AQL3A
Thank you for your help.
I requested two versions of the specifications, one covering the components prior to installation and another for the final setup.
Based on what you mentioned, your PC functions normally despite a minor unusual sound. The source of this noise depends on what generates it; fans running at high speeds often hide or alter the sound, or if it's vibration-based, the fan spinning causes the case to vibrate and suppress the noise. This phenomenon is known as CPU socket backplate effect. It can also occur when the CPU cooler itself produces the sound. That’s why an AIO with a pump directly over the CPU is involved—any issues like loose fastenings, air trapped in the pump, or even metal resonance can cause this. Check the backplate securing of your AIO. You’ll need to remove the pump for a proper inspection. Refer to your AIO installation guide, Step 1, letter B for details.
When adjusting fan/pump RPM and the unusual noise disappears, it indicates bearing issues. Certain fans/pumps generate bearing noise at specific RPM ranges; operating them beyond these ranges is usually the solution. Replacing the component may also be necessary.