The PC CPU is experiencing issues and the motherboard is refusing to load.
The PC CPU is experiencing issues and the motherboard is refusing to load.
Hello, new PC build! Here’s a refreshed version of your situation:
I recently upgraded my ITX case with an i7 12700K CPU, a GTX 3060 (unplugged), 32GB RAM, and the SFX cooler Master Gold 850W PSU. The motherboard is an ASUS Z690i with a Samsung 980 X2 SSDs, two AIO coolers (LS520 240mm), and a solid setup. At first, everything worked fine. But soon things began to go wrong.
I unplugged my GPU because it was using integrated graphics, which I could still use. If you're interested, jump straight to the 'Current Situation' if the list is lengthy. Thanks for any tips you can share! I’ll go through the issues one by one.
1. Initially, the PC would start up but would crash when I tried to install an operating system. After repeated attempts, it would briefly power on, fans would spin, and LEDs would flash, then shut down after a second. This cycle continued until I unplugged it completely. I thought this was due to overheating, so I let it cool overnight.
2. As an ITX build, cable management was a challenge—cables were often bent. After rearranging everything carefully, the PC booted into BIOS and stayed at a steady 27°C. Both SSDs were reading properly, and I managed to install Windows. Suddenly, the system shut down again, then restarted into the same unstable state. I noticed the SSD heatsink was extremely hot, and the AIO pump felt warm but not scorching.
3. I tried removing one RAM stick at a time, but the system still booted normally. When I powered it on again, fans spun and the fan LEDs lit, but the QLED display failed to turn on. There were RGB LEDs on the motherboard indicating which ports were active, but no output from the computer. The keyboard received power, and USB-C charging worked—keyboard’s Caps Lock light turned green. However, the AIO fans and pump didn’t function properly. The QLED screen showed error codes but didn’t illuminate. I also noticed my keyboard was receiving power, and the PSU extension cables were all connected.
I’m still trying to figure out what’s happening and need your advice. Please list the problems in order if possible.