Windows 10 starts directly into the operating system without allowing access to the boot menu.
Windows 10 starts directly into the operating system without allowing access to the boot menu.
The only item visible in the device manager for display adaptors is my integrated GPU, which I'm using right now. I'm unsure if this is due to an optical trick, but the Radeon seems slightly higher at the end where the HDMI cable connects. If it weren't properly seated, would the GPU still activate? If so, then I'm in trouble because the GPU won't fit any further, suggesting the card doesn't match my motherboard. Or might it be a driver problem?
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Here is the information you requested:
View: https://imgur.com/zWTi604
Image: https://imgur.com/zWTi604
No visible issues with graphics card misalignments in the image.
I've encountered situations where certain components (GPUs, SAS controllers, NICs, etc.) don't align correctly within the motherboard PCIe slots. As cato12 mentioned, examining the side of the PCIe slot reveals that the board is tilted slightly at an angle. This typically occurs because the card's metal support bracket is sticking to the chassis, making contact just below the motherboard level.
To test, remove the bracket from the GPU and observe if the card sits normally in the slot. Place the card upright to prevent sagging without the bracket (which might require flipping the computer sideways). Then connect the video cable to the monitor and power on the system (see CAUTION below).
If the card is detected, resolve the misalignment between the bracket and the chassis.
CAUTION: Avoid connecting or disconnecting the monitor cable at the GPU with the bracket removed while the computer is powered on, as this could cause 'magic smoke' to appear. Also, refrain from touching the GPU during testing if power is active. It's safe as long as you don't move or disturb the card.
Occasionally, slightly bending the lower end of the bracket can help the card fit properly. In some setups, removing the motherboard and adding packing washers to the chassis standoffs raised the board by 1 to 2mm inside the case. One washer per standoff usually suffices, though two or three may be needed in severe cases.
Raising the motherboard slightly in the case can also improve card installation, making it easier for cards to slot into the PCI/PCIe connectors and potentially resolving the issue.
Another option is lightly filing away metal from the bracket, but this generates debris and voids the warranty, so it should only be considered as a final solution.