System starts but screen remains dark; appears active only under certain conditions.
System starts but screen remains dark; appears active only under certain conditions.
Here’s a clearer version of your detailed account:
The situation began when I attempted a clean Windows 10 installation. I wanted to revert back because I didn’t like the new features in Windows 11. I used a Windows 10 installation USB and tried to format my main drive (Kingston NV2). However, the system refused to create a partition for it, so I considered deleting the extra drive (the RAM stick) and then powered off the PC. After restarting, the machine would power on intermittently—initially thinking it was just a boot cycle, but later realizing the power cable wasn’t fully connected.
Once I turned it back on, the PC started up but didn’t display anything. The keyboard would turn on quickly, but after a few seconds it would shut down again. My first attempts at troubleshooting included reseating the RAM, CPU, and GPU, but nothing resolved the issue. I even tested my GPU and RAM with a neighbor, finding that one of the RAM modules wasn’t functioning properly.
Eventually, I decided to replace the problematic RAM stick and bought a new 32GB Kingston HyperX RGB RTX 2070 with 3200MHz. I plugged it in but still faced problems. I tried booting with just the ASUS TUF GAMING II motherboard, which worked temporarily. After turning it off and back on several times, I reached BIOS settings and adjusted my system preferences, but the display remained absent.
Now I’m confused about whether the problem lies with the motherboard, CPU, or GPU. I’m seeking advice from others who might have similar experiences. Your PC specs were:
- CPU: Ryzen 5 2600 MOBILE
- Boards: B450M ASUS TUF GAMING II
- RAM: 16GB TUF 3200MHz
- GPU: Colorful RTX 2070
- Storage: 500GB Kingston NV2 + 500GB RAM stick (both M.2)
- Power Supply: Corsair CX650 80+ Bronze
- Motherboard: Unknown model (possibly MWE)
If you could clarify the motherboard model or any recent changes, it would help a lot.
Not exactly the standard procedure. You might want to keep the CPU and GPU running for a while, possibly reset the BIOS first, or wipe the drive before installing Windows. Check if the PC starts in BIOS, then remove all components. Swapping the power supply is also unusual, but worth trying. Make sure you unplugged the device and grounded yourself before handling the internal parts. I understand your point, but forcing RAM out shouldn’t be simple. It seems the hardware might be the issue—CPUs tend to last longer than the boards. There could be debris between pins and the socket, especially if the workspace is dusty.
Sure, I took a moment to stabilize myself before handling the internal components of the PC. The single stick RAM functioned before I installed the 32GB kit. I’ll review the board again after I’m done.