I just built my new PC with a Ryzen 7 5700, B550 Gaming X V2 motherboard, 32GB RAM, a 3060 Ti GPU (from my old PC), and a 650W Corsair PSU. Everything is brand new except the GPU. In my rush to set it up, I totally forgot to connect the power pin to the GPU. When I turned on the PSU after assembling everything, the GPU fan spun, and the RGB lights came on. But when I pressed the power button, the RGB started flickering, and I smelled something burning within 20 seconds. I immediately turned it off and realized my mistake. Now I'm wondering what damage I might have caused by starting the PC without the GPU power pin connected and what I should do next. Any advice would be appreciated!
4 Answers
If your PSU is acting up, you might want to inspect it. There are ways to test it with simple tools. Remember to build in a clean environment since dust or poor connections can cause issues, too.
Not plugging in the GPU shouldn't have damaged anything. The issue likely stems from something else. Make sure all components are correctly connected, as that's where problems often arise. Don't worry too much—if everything else is new, it should be under warranty!
So it's possible I just need to check my wiring then? I'll double-check connections. Thanks for the reassurance!
Sounds like the GPU is probably okay since it was receiving power from the board. Focus on checking your power supply and all other connections in the system. If something was shorting, it might be that instead of the GPU being at fault.
Great point! I'll check the PSU and make sure everything is connected properly before trying to power it again.
Interesting situation! If your GPU wasn't powered, it wouldn't usually fry itself just from that. Try testing the GPU in your old PC to see if it still works. If it does, the issue might lie elsewhere in your build.
I plan to do that! Fingers crossed everything's fine with the GPU.
Thanks for the tip! I cleaned my space, but I'll check the PSU and consider testing it as you suggested.