I'm having a really frustrating problem with my new PC build. I've double-checked the connection of the 24-pin motherboard power and the 8-pin CPU power cables, but nothing seems to work. I also connected the case cables to the front panel, but they feel a bit loose—should they be like that? I've reseated the RAM, but still no luck. The monitor only shows a 'lost signal' message, and it seems like nothing lights up, including the RGB keyboard, and the fans don't spin at all. It's almost like there's no power. I'm starting to wonder if the PSU is faulty, or if I accidentally damaged the motherboard while installing it. One of the screws got stripped, so now the motherboard is stuck in the case. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
5 Answers
It looks like you didn’t connect the front panel power, HDD, and LED cables that came with your case—make sure you get those plugged in correctly.
Could it be something simple you missed? First things first, is the power supply switched on?
Alright, let’s go back to the basics. Clear the CMOS first; there should be a jumper for that. After that, take everything out of the case and put the motherboard on the box it came in. Connect just the CPU and a single RAM stick, then power it up with the PSU connectors. Use a screwdriver to short the power switch—this will help you see if anything works at all. If it doesn’t, the motherboard, CPU, or PSU might be the problem.
Nothing happens when you press the power button? Like, no lights or fans at all? That’s concerning. It might be a power issue or something else critical.
Yeah, it’s totally dead. No fans, no lights, nothing—I’m starting to panic.
Also, check that you’ve connected the front panel cables properly to the right port. Sometimes it’s easy to plug it into the wrong spot, like a USB port instead of the right header.
I’ve switched the PSU on and off several times—still nothing.