Hey everyone! I just finished building my first PC, and I'm running into a major problem. When I try to boot it up, there's no signal on my monitor, and the DRAM light on the motherboard stays lit. I've followed all the assembly guides and completed the build, but despite my efforts, it's still not working. Here's my parts list:
- **CPU**: AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D
- **Cooler**: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE
- **Motherboard**: Gigabyte B850 AORUS ELITE WIFI7
- **Memory**: Corsair Vengeance RGB 32 GB DDR5
- **Storage**: Samsung 990 EVO Plus 2 TB NVMe SSD
- **Video Card**: ASRock Phantom Gaming OC Radeon RX 7900 XTX
- **Power Supply**: MSI MAG A850GL 850W
I've reseated the RAM (using slots A2 and B2), tested both single and dual-channel configurations, and even swapped out RAM with a set of Crucial DDR5. I also checked the CPU, ensuring it's properly seated. I took my PC to a repair shop where they ran the same diagnostics and updated the BIOS, but still no luck. I was told that my original Crucial RAM might not be supported, so I bought the Corsair that's listed as compatible, but I'm still having issues. I'm feeling pretty lost here. Should I consider replacing the motherboard? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
3 Answers
Don't stress too much about the 'officially supported memory' lists. As long as your RAM follows the base JDEC specifications, it should work. DDR5 often takes longer than expected to train, so after clearing the CMOS, just let it run for a bit and see if it can eventually boot up. A BIOS update might also help speed things along.
It sounds like your repair shop couldn't get it to POST either, which points towards a potential motherboard issue or even a CPU problem since the CPU contains the memory controller. Given that you've already tried multiple sets of RAM, it might be worth considering replacing the motherboard as the next step if you can't get it booted up. Just make sure the new motherboard supports your RAM.
I suggest clearing the CMOS again, but try using the jumper method instead of just pulling the battery. Also, only install one stick of RAM in the A2 slot and see if it boots. Sometimes, DDR5 can take a while to complete its memory training process, which can take up to 10 minutes, so be patient!
Thanks for the tip! I'll clear the CMOS using the jumper and give it another shot.
Got it, thanks! If I get a new one, should I check compatibility for the RAM again?