I finished my first PC build, but the motherboard's orange DRAM indicator stays lit and I get no video output. I've tested the memory sticks individually in different slots, reset the CMOS, replaced the battery, and inspected the CPU and socket for visible damage. The system uses an ASUS ROG Strix Z390-F Gaming motherboard, Intel Core i9-9900K, and 32GB (2×16GB) Kingston HyperX Predator RGB DDR4-3200 memory. What else should I check?
2 Answers
Those parts should be compatible, but start with the motherboard’s recommended memory slot—usually A2 for one stick, then A2 and B2 for two sticks. Make sure each module is fully clicked into place, since both latches may not move on some boards. Try booting with only the CPU, cooler, one RAM stick, and the graphics card connected, with all USB devices and extra drives disconnected. Also verify the 24-pin motherboard and 8-pin CPU power cables are firmly seated.
If neither stick works by itself in the recommended slot, inspect the CPU socket again for even slightly bent pins. On this platform, a damaged socket pin or uneven cooler pressure can trigger the DRAM light even when the memory is fine. You can also try clearing CMOS with the power supply switched off and the power cable unplugged, then let the board sit for a few minutes before testing again.
The CPU and socket look normal, and I’ve already tried clearing the CMOS. I’ll test the recommended slot with the bare-minimum setup and recheck the power connections.