I just upgraded my graphics card from a 1050ti to a 5060ti and also changed the thermal paste on my CPU. Now my PC won't turn on at all. The only thing I did was unplug the CPU cooler (without removing it from the motherboard), clean everything up, and plug in the new GPU. I even tried booting without the GPU, but still nothing happens. I have a Ryzen 5 5600x and an ASUS B550F motherboard. I unplugged everything from my RM750 PSU, but when I connect my ethernet cable, I see lights flashing, which makes me think the PSU isn't dead. I'm really stuck here; am I in trouble?
5 Answers
It sounds frustrating, but don't worry! Start by checking this flowchart I found that might help you troubleshoot your setup.
This chart is a lifesaver, thanks for sharing! I definitely overlooked a few things when I built mine.
Is your CPU seated properly? Mine came loose when I reapplied the thermal paste, so it’s worth checking. Look under the cooler and make sure the pins are lined up right. You might need to reseat it before putting the cooler back on.
Checked it, but it didn't work. Thanks for the suggestion!
You might want to try removing your CMOS battery for a moment and then putting it back. I had a laptop that wouldn't boot, but this fixed it for me before.
I already tried that and no luck :/.
Did you accidentally knock any of the front panel connector cables loose while swapping out the GPU? That could explain why nothing is happening. Try bridging the connection with a screwdriver too, that sometimes works.
I tried that too but it didn't help.
Is there any sign that the PC is trying to power on at all? No lights or sounds? If there's complete silence, it could be an issue with the PSU or connections.
No sounds and no lights on the motherboard itself. The only thing lit up is the ethernet connection.

Oh man, the classic power toggle issue on the PSU! I've made that mistake before too.