I recently built a PC for my wife using a mix of new and second-hand parts. The GPU, RAM, CPU, and case were previously used, while the SSD and motherboard are brand new. However, the system won't post. I've built plenty of PCs before without issues, so I'm looking for steps to isolate the problem. Any advice on what to check first?
2 Answers
If possible, try using known working parts to troubleshoot. I understand that you might not have replacements for everything, but swapping in parts you know are functional can help identify where the problem lies. If you suspect the case might be damaged and causing a short, consider taking the motherboard out of the case and testing it on a non-conductive surface.
First thing I'd check is if you hear any beep codes or if the motherboard lights up. Does the PC power on at all? If it doesn’t show any display, it might be a compatibility issue with one of the parts, especially with the RAM. Make sure all components are compatible. You could also test your parts in a different working setup to narrow down the issue. If the SSD isn't initialized, that can also be a quick fix. Try booting with just one stick of RAM in the correct slot, too. If it’s still not working, be ready to swap parts one at a time until you find the culprit.
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