I've been facing some frustrating issues with my new PC build and could really use some advice. Sometimes the BOOT LED doesn't activate, and it doesn't start up into Windows—no start-up sound to indicate it's booting. Occasionally, it does boot into Windows (I hear the sound and the BOOT LED turns on), but I still get no display. The fans and RGB lights are on in both cases. After switching it off and on again multiple times, I sometimes manage to get into Windows with a display.
Additionally, I experience random crashes during low-demand tasks like browsing or opening Task Manager. More often than not, the DRAM LED lights up when these crashes occur. I've been checking the Reliability Monitor and noticed errors like Blue Screen, LiveKernelEvent, and Reboot from Bugcheck. I can share this information if it's helpful.
Here are my specs:
* CPU: 9800x3d
* GPU: 5090 FE
* Motherboard: MSI B850 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI
* RAM: Crucial Pro 32GB DDR5 6400 CL32 (running stock at 5600)
* PSU: Montech Century II 1200W ATX 3.1
* Monitor: MSI MPG 321URX connected via HDMI
* Windows Version: Windows 11 Home 25H2 26200.7840
To troubleshoot, I have:
* Reseated all components
* Checked all cables
* Tried a different monitor and cable
* Used an older GPU driver
* Loosened the CPU Air Cooler's pressure
* Inspected components for damage
* Cleared CMOS
* Updated to the latest BIOS and chipset versions
* Booted with one RAM stick at a time while using the motherboard's HDMI without the GPU—this sometimes worked, but I could only test in short intervals. I'm unsure if the problems emerge after the system has been off for extended periods, which complicates testing.
2 Answers
Have you tried switching off EXPO in your BIOS settings? Sometimes that can help resolve booting issues and crashes.
It sounds like you're facing some classic RAM instability issues or maybe a seating problem. I suggest running Memtest86 for a few hours, especially since the DRAM LED lights up during your crashes. If that passes without errors, consider RMAing the RAM because Crucial Pro typically has a good reputation, so something’s clearly off with your kit.
That's a great idea! Just curious, can RAM instability also lead to display problems?
Yeah, but I have the RAM set to stock speeds already.