There are several problems with my computer.
There are several problems with my computer.
Hello! I’m facing some problems with my computer. It began one day when I powered on and noticed the resolutions shifted. Both monitors displayed poor quality images. Additionally, Google Chrome vanished from my system. The shortcut appeared on the desktop but failed to launch, indicating a missing executable. I felt like Windows had been damaged beyond repair. After dealing with too many issues, I decided to explore Linux as an alternative daily operating system.
I created a USB drive on my laptop and connected it to my PC. After launching from the USB, I encountered some strange behavior. On the main monitor, only a quarter of the desktop was visible, while the second monitor worked fine. I tried adjusting display settings in the menu, but switching the second monitor to match the main one fixed the issue. Changing its refresh rate also resolved the problem.
I suspected a Linux-related problem and installed it. It functioned properly at first, though it ran slowly. I thought it might be due to missing graphics drivers, but it persisted. I then tried installing Windows again and encountered further complications. The Radeon software required a driver update, which resolved the issue temporarily.
After some troubleshooting, I discovered my BIOS was outdated. I updated the firmware and performed a Q-Flash. However, I noticed persistent problems: audio would stop after a few seconds, playback sounded distorted for a couple of seconds, and formatting drives caused errors.
I also experienced strange visuals—colorful lines appeared on YouTube when using the graphics card—and keyboard issues when sleeping or restarting. The USB would not register my keyboard during sleep, requiring manual reconnection. My PCIe NVMe card worked well until BIOS updates made it invisible to the system.
My PC is behaving oddly, and I’m quite concerned about what might be wrong. Thank you for your time and support—I really appreciate your help!
This post is quite confusing. It seems the resolution is odd and there are missing elements. There might be a virus affecting your Windows, causing hard drive issues, memory problems, or GPU failures. To check, test your disks with a diagnostic tool and run memory tests afterward. If you need help, let me know and I’ll assist further. Good luck!
Hello @BoomerDutch The post might have been a bit tricky to read. I understand it's complicated, but I ran a Memtest yesterday and everything looks good. I used CrystalDiskInfo and saw my SSD at 81% (holding the Windows install) and the second NVMe drive at 92%—for games and files. The third one in the PCIe adapter isn’t visible. I also completed an S.M.A.R.T short self-test on the Windows drive, which passed.
Occasionally video card drivers come through Windows Update and lower the resolution to something like 800 x 600. It’s possible your Chrome shortcut was still present but hidden or moved elsewhere on the desktop. I’ve seen this happen when an update resets compatibility with the AMD Control Center app, forcing a resolution down. To fix this, download the chipset drivers and the latest video card driver from amd.com.
Initially, I need a spare GPU or CPU, but no one has one to lend. I'm doubtful the problem lies with my motherboard because it seems to miss the third NVMe slot connected to the PCIe expansion card. When it comes to resolution and Chrome, issues began on Linux too. Additionally, the system fails to recognize my keyboard when it powers off, and I can't type in the lock screen or wake it up using the keyboard unless I disconnect and reconnect it.
Hi OP, it was worth asking. If troubleshooting suggests the problem is with the motherboard, then yes, it’s definitely possible the board is failing instead of the CPU and GPU. Regarding USB, I’m not completely sure, but after a BIOS update could there be changes to USB support or power delivery settings? Otherwise, an off USB power setting wouldn’t matter if the issue is a motherboard. Hope you can handle replacing the motherboard and check if you’re correct if not—you can always return it.
I'm not sure if any setting removed the third NVMe SSD, but it might be hiding from BIOS and Windows. Those details aren't my main concern, though—I really rely on that third NVMe for my dual boot setup.
I'm not sure, but it seems unlikely. It might be a motherboard issue rather than an NVMe problem. You could try changing the slot to see if that resolves the issue. Also, check the BIOS settings and look up any unclear options using your phone for guidance before proceeding.
I attempted to swap the disks in the NVMe PCIe adapter. Initially, the adapter worked fine with the NVMe from the motherboard slot, but after swapping, only the adapter's NVMe appeared. Then I replaced the adapter with a GPU, but the system failed to boot, producing strange noises and beeping sounds. This suggests the PCIe slot is likely faulty, possibly due to motherboard issues or chipset problems. It seems power-related damage might have affected both components.