Hey folks, I could really use some help troubleshooting my PC. I received an old company computer as a Christmas gift, wiped it, and did a fresh Windows install. Everything was working fine until I decided to fully disassemble it for a deep clean. Now, after putting it back together, it's not performing a POST — there's no image at all on my monitors.
Here are my specs:
- **CPU:** Intel Core i5-11400
- **RAM:** 16 GB (2x8 GB @ 2660 MHz)
- **Motherboard:** ASUS Prime B460M-A R2.0
- **Old GPU:** MSI GT 710 1G3H LP
- **New GPU:** NVIDIA GTX 1050 Ti
- **Old PSU:** 350W Bronze
- **New PSU:** 500W Bronze
- **Storage:** 256 GB SSD
After reassembling, here's what I've already tried:
- Swapped back to the old PSU
- Tested the old GPU
- Switched out the RAM for known good sticks
- Cleaned and reinstalled the CPU
When I turn on the PSU, the RGB lights up, but when I press the power button, the GPU powers down and the keyboard and mouse turn off completely. I've tested multiple monitors and cables, but no output.
I'm concerned that I might have accidentally shorted something, damaged the motherboard, or missed a power connection somewhere. Any insights on what might be causing the issue would be greatly appreciated. I'm totally stumped!
Thanks in advance!
5 Answers
When you mention deep cleaning, what method did you use? If liquid was involved, it could've damaged the motherboard.
It’s worth clearing the CMOS just to rule it out. Pull the battery, unplug everything, and short the two CLRTC pins. If you can, use a 4-pin speaker to check for beep codes from the motherboard, that can help diagnose issues.
It sounds like something might be fried on the motherboard. Before considering a replacement, try swapping the CMOS battery. It's a simple fix and cheaper than replacing parts! Good luck!
Try removing the GPU and any other components. Just boot with one RAM stick and see if you get any output using integrated graphics.
I appreciate the tip! I tried it and still got no image.
Did you replace or reuse the power cables? Some CPUs need different motherboard connections. I learned this the hard way, losing a HDD, so just checking!
None of the PSUs are modular, so I couldn't reuse the cables. I even tried using the old PSU with the old GPU, but still got no display.
I didn't use any liquid, just air and soft brushes. I also applied new thermal paste when I reassembled.