I just built my first PC, and all the fans and lighting turn on, but the monitor says "No Signal." I initially connected the DisplayPort cable to the graphics card, then also tried the motherboard's video output with the graphics card removed. Neither worked. A wired keyboard connected to the motherboard's USB ports also does not light up. The RAM modules are installed in slots 2 and 4, and I believe they are fully seated, but their lighting does not turn on either. I also removed the motherboard battery for about 30 minutes to reset it, with no change. The CPU is AMD, and I've tried leaving the system powered on for around five minutes in case the memory needed to train. What should I check next?
4 Answers
Because the CPU is AMD, the first memory-training boot can take longer than usual and may show no video during the process. A few minutes is sometimes normal, but it should not continue indefinitely. If it still fails after waiting, clear the CMOS using the board’s jumper or procedure, then try booting with one RAM stick and the graphics card installed. The motherboard video ports will only work if that particular AMD processor has integrated graphics.
Check every power connection, especially the 24-pin motherboard cable and the CPU power cable near the top of the board. Make sure the monitor is powered on and set to the correct DisplayPort input. Disconnect the PSU from the wall for a minute before trying again. If the processor was installed manually, inspect the socket and CPU for seating problems or bent pins, but handle that carefully.
Look for diagnostic LEDs or a small display on the motherboard. If it has labels such as CPU, DRAM, VGA, or BOOT, the light that remains on can identify where startup is failing. A motherboard speaker can also provide beep codes if the board supports them.
I didn’t realize motherboards could use speakers for beep codes. I’ll check whether mine has diagnostic LEDs or a speaker connection.
RAM is one of the first things to check. It can require more pressure than expected before both retention clips lock into place. Turn the system off, unplug the power supply, remove the sticks, and reinstall one module at a time in the recommended slot from the motherboard manual. Also make sure the slot clips are fully closed.
I pushed them in firmly and followed a few installation videos, but I’ll try testing one stick at a time and double-check that both clips are locked.
Five minutes should generally be enough for the initial memory training, so if there is still no keyboard power or display after that, I’d focus on the diagnostic LEDs, power cables, RAM seating, and CPU compatibility.