I'm trying to install Linux on my PC, but I'm facing a strange problem. I can't seem to access my BIOS at all—it's just a black screen every time I turn on the PC. Here's what's going on: when I start up, I don't see the BIOS or POST screen; it goes directly to Windows. I've tried pressing DEL or F12, but the system just restarts and stays on a black screen. Even using the Windows UEFI Firmware Settings to access the BIOS results in a black screen. My keyboard lights up, indicating that the BIOS is running, but it seems like there's no video output until Windows loads its GPU driver. I've already lowered my monitor's refresh rate to 60 Hz and 144 Hz, but no change. My hardware specs are: GPU - RTX 5060, CPU - Ryzen 5 5500 (no integrated GPU), Motherboard - Gigabyte B550M K, Monitor - Samsung Odyssey 240 Hz.
4 Answers
I had a similar issue with my previous setup using a Ryzen 5600x and RTX 3070. The display only showed up after Windows booted, with no sign of the BIOS or POST screen. I managed to fix it just by connecting my monitor to a different port on the GPU. My monitor was older and only had HDMI, so I needed an HDMI to DisplayPort cable, which did the trick. Try switching ports on your GPU and monitor, it might help too!
Try turning off fast boot in Windows, then shut down your computer completely. When you power it back up, rapidly press the delete key. Keep mashing that button until you either get into the BIOS or the Windows login. If that doesn't work, definitely check out other GPU ports as suggested.
Your motherboard supports both DisplayPort and HDMI for multi-display usage. You might want to try plugging the monitor directly into the motherboard instead of the GPU. I know you mentioned not having integrated graphics, but it could still be worth trying another port on your GPU just in case.
Have you checked your motherboard documentation? Some Gigabyte motherboards have a special button on the rear I/O that lets you access the BIOS directly. It could be worth a shot!
Exactly! I had fast boot enabled on a laptop before, and it bypassed the BIOS completely. It’s tricky, but you have to hit the BIOS key right after powering on. Some systems can have different keys like F2, Del, or Escape, so keep trying!