The ASRock Z790 is showing the CPU and DRAM status indicators, but it isn’t responding.
The ASRock Z790 is showing the CPU and DRAM status indicators, but it isn’t responding.
I've checked re-seating ATX12V1 and its power connection. I've tried ATXPWR1 and all five power connections. I removed the four DRAM sticks, installed each one separately in slot B2, and used a CMOS reset for three seconds. After that, both CPU and DRAM PSC lights came on briefly before shutting off. What would you like to try next?
The term "stops" refers to a complete halt in activity, where fans and all systems cease operation permanently.
I connected the tower, monitor, and speakers to a power strip. First, I switched on the strip’s power, then the tower’s power button. The case and CPU cooler fans activated after a short delay, while the CPU and DRAM indicators lit up right away. The tower power button didn’t cut off power to the tower; I needed to use the outlet switch on the strip. When I turned off the strip’s switch, both fans turned back on within a second or two, just like when I powered it up.
I added a second DRAM stick into memory slot A2 without any effect. I confirmed PANEL1 and ensured PLED+ and -, HDLED+ and -, PWRBTN#, RESET# and their grounds were properly linked. After unplugging the power cord, I shorted CLRMOS1 and removed the CMOS battery for a few minutes. While it was off, I measured the battery voltage at 3.03 VDC. Then I took out the jumper, put the battery back in, and connected the power cord again. I switched on the power at the strip and tower. Still no improvement. It seems I hadn't attached the front case fan. I powered everything down, then connected the fan to CHA_FAN1/WP (rear case and CPU cooling fans go to CHA_FAN2/WP and CPU_FAN1). I repeated the process. This time all three fans ran, but the CPU and DRAM indicators remained active.
Recorded 120.4 VAC from the power cord. Cut the EPS-CPU cable. Unplugged speakers, monitor, mouse, and keyboard. DRAM in slot B2. Took off heat sink and fan, kept the fan connected. Replaced CPU. Linked EPS-CPU cable to ATX12V1 between ports 1-10 and ATX12V2 between ports 1-10 of the power supply. CPU and DRAM PSC lights lit up, all fans working with every setting. I’m running out of options.
Checked all DRAM modules individually in slot B2, none worked. Tested in slots A2 and B2, still no improvement. Attempted placing modules in A2, B1, and B2, but results unchanged. Ran through every slot with a single module, no success.
Hi there, IkeaGnome. I attempted to start the system using just ATX12V1 and ATXPWR1 connected, with no other peripherals attached—only PLED, HDLED, and PWRBTN# plugged in, and fans not connected. The M.2 SSD, CPU, and one DRAM stick are in slot B2. There’s no visible power button on the motherboard. I also tried shorting the power button leads, but it didn’t help. The CPU and DRAM indicators still lit up as before.