System freezes repeatedly during startup. Input devices are unresponsive.
System freezes repeatedly during startup. Input devices are unresponsive.
The issue seems to stem from a power-related problem rather than the motherboard itself. Check if the power supply is functioning correctly and if the PC boots normally when the power is disconnected. Also, inspect the keyboard and mouse for any visible damage or obstructions.
Consider this not a hardware fault but possibly a Windows-related issue. Start by connecting a USB drive and installing Windows Media Manager there (or Linux if you prefer). Then remove your internal SSD and check if you can boot from the USB. If you manage to enter Windows, the problem is likely with Windows itself. If it doesn’t work, try accessing the BIOS and resetting it back to its original settings—it might resolve the issue.
Try using alternative input methods like touchpad or voice commands. You can transfer your data from another PC by removing your hard drive and inserting it into the damaged one. If the issue is Windows-related, it may boot from the external drive.
I changed the boot drives on both computers. The drive from the faulty PC works well, but the drive from the healthy PC is causing a boot loop and a blue screen in the other one.
It seems like the issue is definitely hardware-related. I've experienced blue screens that appear to be Windows problems, which made me hopeful. You mentioned the keyboard-mouse combo isn't working, but sometimes this happens after the OS tries to load. I’d still attempt to power on and press Delete/F12/F5 repeatedly; maybe you’ll reach BIOS if you’re lucky. If not, it probably points to a faulty CPU.
It seems like your system is experiencing a hardware problem. If the keyboard isn't responding and the screen lights up, but the power reaches the board, it suggests a CPU issue. You might need to check the specifications of your PC or consider upgrading the CPU.
That’s regrettable. The main upgrade would likely be replacing the motherboard and CPU. They might consider a 9th generation i7, but it’s probably priced similarly to a 12th gen model. You’d save around $100 for a new CPU if you purchase it brand new. You could also get a 12th generation i5 for roughly the same cost—though you’d need to factor in the motherboard price, which is about $100–150, though I haven’t checked recent listings. The best option seems to be searching for someone with an 8th or 9th generation Intel CPU, as that fits the socket and you could swap them out. That’s essentially the only viable path forward.