My PC was left running for several days, and it now gets stuck with the DRAM warning LED lit. I tested two different memory kits, and both work normally when paired with a spare Ryzen 5 8500G. However, neither of my other CPUs will complete POST: this happened previously with a Ryzen 9 9950X and has now happened again with a Ryzen 9 9950X3D after roughly two years of use. The motherboard is an ASUS ROG Strix B650-A Gaming WiFi. Is there a known issue with the memory controller on these CPUs, could leaving the system running have caused this, and what troubleshooting steps should I try?
3 Answers
Leaving a computer powered on for several days normally should not destroy the processor. If something you changed caused damage, it would usually appear much sooner. Updating the BIOS with the working processor is the sensible first step, but if that does not help, testing the CPUs in another compatible motherboard—or having the board and processor checked together—will help determine whether the issue is the CPUs, socket, or motherboard.
Try running the system with one DIMM at a time in the board’s recommended slot, with EXPO disabled. A full power drain and CMOS reset are worth doing before testing again. If the board still posts with the 8500G but not either Ryzen 9, inspect the AM5 socket and CPU contact pads closely and consider motherboard or CPU warranty service.
Since both memory kits work with the 8500G, the RAM itself is probably not the problem. Use the working CPU to update the motherboard to the latest BIOS, then clear CMOS and load default settings. Also reseat the failed CPU and check the socket carefully for bent or contaminated pins. If the problem remains, the CPU’s integrated memory controller may have failed, although it would be unusual for two CPUs to fail in the same way.
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