I'm trying to revive an old computer into a media PC, but I'm stuck with no video signal from my new motherboards. Initially, I used an ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 paired with an AMD FX 3600. Although the computer powers on, there's no video output from the GPU, and since the CPU lacks integrated graphics, I couldn't test the motherboard's video output.
Next, I switched to an ASRock H97M Pro4 with an Intel i7-4790, which does support integrated graphics. Unfortunately, I'm still facing the same issue – no video from the GPU or the motherboard. I've tried multiple GPUs, different RAM modules, and various ports like HDMI, VGA, and DVI, but nothing seems to work. I know everything is functional since I've tested all components on my main PC. I've also cleared the CMOS and removed the battery, starting the computer without the GPU and drives. I'm really running out of ideas here, and this is a first for me after building several computers.
2 Answers
The M5A78L-M LX3 can actually output video without a dedicated GPU because it has built-in chipset graphics. So, you might want to check if you have enabled integrated graphics in the BIOS. Also, can you confirm what type of RAM you’re using? Sometimes compatibility issues can cause no video output.
You're right about needing a compatible CPU for using onboard graphics! Since you've got an i7-4790, that should work. As for the RAM, the G.Skill Ripjaws Z sticks should be fine, but it might be worth testing with just one stick at a time or trying different slots to rule out any issues.

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