The most bizarre troubleshooting experience I've ever had
The most bizarre troubleshooting experience I've ever had
My GFs PC has been experiencing intermittent problems over the past year, with concerns about nearly every part at some point. I’ve purchased a new motherboard in the hopes of fixing it, but I’m seeking advice or solutions from others who’ve dealt with similar problems before. Originally it had:
- Random bluescreens and unresolved issues.
- Screen freezes and distorted visuals.
- After removing the GPU, the system stabilized temporarily, then new problems emerged.
I switched to using integrated graphics afterward. Then I faced more troubles:
- Frequent bluescreens linked to kernel errors and file corruption.
- Windows would repeatedly fail to reinstall properly, needing multiple attempts.
- A 2TB Samsung SSD replaced with a 500GB WD drive, along with changing the M.2 slot, seemed to help for a short time.
- After a fresh Windows install, it worked for a few weeks before returning to old issues.
I removed RAM sticks one by one to see if it would resolve things, but only for a week or so. I also tried reseating the CPU, which led to further failures.
The most recent setback:
- The PC would only boot after five failed attempts.
- When I couldn’t get past the first few tries, the CPU and memory LEDs lit up.
- Once it finally started, Windows wouldn’t load properly.
- To diagnose, I disassembled components until it worked, but one piece—its mounting screw—kept failing.
Now it runs without freezing, though it takes a moment to boot and sometimes freezes when trying to open settings or the start menu. I’m considering a new motherboard (B850M) since that seems to be the core issue now. I haven’t tried reinstalling Windows yet.
Implies unstable memory. Checking RAM is straightforward—use Memtest86 on a USB drive with Ventoy, then execute the regular test at least twice.
I believe it's not a RAM problem because the $200 kit now would cost $700 to replace. I've tested each stick separately and they performed similarly, which made me think it wasn't just a RAM issue since both would fail at the same time. This device worked smoothly for a year before problems began.
Alright, I understand you're mainly focused on testing just one stick at a time. I agree, if the PC ran smoothly for a year it's unlikely the RAM is the issue. Swapping it now would be quite inconvenient. Regarding the screw, it's possible the copper trace in the motherboard is damaged and only connects properly when that screw is loose—RMA for the motherboard seems like the best course of action!
I first considered RAM, but the hint points to a worsening pattern and increased occurrences. Typically, a deteriorating PSU shows these signs. Still, a failing MB can mimic it too. In my opinion, I’d swap out the PSU if it’s quite old or not delivering enough power for your requirements.
If it had been over tightened, it would have been since its initial construction. I’m not sure if it’s a broken trace, but more likely two traces or planes that shouldn’t connect are touching during screw installation. I’ll check whether I can return the product for repair.