The DRAM LED Boot Loop following XMP/Game Boost functioned previously but is currently not booting properly.
The DRAM LED Boot Loop following XMP/Game Boost functioned previously but is currently not booting properly.
System Specifications
Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 7600X
Graphics Card: NVIDIA RTX 4070
Memory: TeamGroup T-Force Delta RGB DDR5 32GB (2x16GB) at 5600MHz
Mainboard: MSI B650 Gaming Plus WiFi
Storage: Samsung 980 Pro 1TB NVMe SSD
Power Supply: Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 650W
Cooling Solution: Deepcool AK400 Digital
Enclosure: Montech 903 Air Max
Display: Gigabyte G27QC
Operating System: Windows 11 Pro
Issue Overview:
The computer is not booting properly. During startup, the motherboard’s diagnostic lights display a specific pattern:
1) At first, both the Red CPU and Amber DRAM indicators illuminate together.
2) These lights switch off rapidly.
3) Right after that, the Yellow/Orange (DRAM) light reappears and starts cycling — it remains on for a short time before turning off again, then restarting in a loop.
4) The White (VGA) indicator stays off entirely.
No visual output is produced, and the system remains locked in this condition.
This pattern suggests a problem during memory initialization. The device fails to reach the VGA verification stage or complete booting.
Timeline of Events:
This malfunction began a few days ago but resolved on its own after a brief period. Afterward, the PC operated normally. This morning, I ran the system for gaming and YouTube streaming without issues. Later this evening, after restarting, the same issue reappeared — but this time it continues without stopping.
Before the problem started, I had turned on XMP profile for RAM and enabled MSI Game Boost in BIOS. The BIOS was already updated.
Actions Taken:
- Reinstalled RAM in all setups (single and dual channel)
- Reconnected all power and data cables
- Removed dust from RAM and motherboard
- Cleared CMOS completely (removed battery)
- Allowed extended waiting periods during boot attempts
- Switched to a different power source
Welcome to the forums, newcomer!
Motherboard: MSI B650 Gaming Plus WiFi
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The BIOS has already been updated.
For clarity, please mention your motherboard's BIOS version.
Ensure the CMOS is fully cleared (remove battery).
Disconnect from power and display, detach the CMOS battery, hold the power button for 30 seconds to discharge any remaining charge. Reattach the battery after 30 minutes.
Consider removing the discrete GPU to check if the system boots normally.
Have you considered borrowing a RAM kit to test your memory? Also, try installing your processor on another functional motherboard to verify if the issue lies elsewhere.
when the system is unresponsive with a yellow light, press and hold the power button for five seconds, then wait until the computer powers off. After that, wait thirty seconds before pressing the power button again to initiate a normal start-up. This process may take one to two minutes, during which the BIOS will boot into "safe" mode. Once inside, turn off the system, enable XMP for RAM settings, and consider activating MSI Game Boost through the BIOS.
xmp is causing issues. I'm experiencing similar problems with a 6400 ddr5 system. When I enable xmp in BIOS, it triggers a yellow lock on the RAM and enters a reboot loop. The power button case stays pressed until the PC shuts down, then it restarts. I've forced the BIOS into safe mode to disable xmp. I haven't thoroughly checked the AI OC or BIOS settings yet. Currently, the system runs smoothly with 4x 16GB (64GB) at 4800 MHz, but I need to figure out the correct settings for 6400. I might have to manually input all timings in the BIOS, review CPU RAM FSB ratio, and check voltages.