I recently decided to check my CPU for reference before buying a used one, and after messing with it and putting it back, my PC powers on but doesn't boot anymore. I've already tried reseating the RAM, CPU, and GPU. Could it be that I damaged something, or what should I check next? I've posted some pictures of my CPU and motherboard for reference.
5 Answers
Did you check if the CPU fan is still connected? Sometimes it’s the simplest things that cause issues, and having the fan unplugged could prevent the system from booting.
Also, just to be safe, have you checked that all your cables are securely connected? Sometimes a dislodged CPU power cable can cause these kinds of booting problems.
Lastly, make sure you've inserted the CPU in the correct orientation. The corner with the gold triangle needs to match up with the triangle on the socket. If that’s off, it would prevent booting too.
Make sure you mounted the cooler back on properly. If the thermal paste has dried up and the CPU isn't contacting it well, that could prevent it from working as a safety measure. You might want to check that out!
It sounds like it might be a RAM issue. I had a similar problem when I had a stick in the wrong slot, and after reseating them, everything worked fine. If you’re still getting no signal, try using only one stick of RAM in a different slot.
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