I'm having trouble with my computer not posting. It tries to start up but ends up with a black screen and no input. The case fans, CPU fan, and GPU fan all start and then briefly stop before restarting this cycle. There's also a strange clicking sound coming from the motherboard that I've never heard before. I've reseated all the components and tried various RAM configurations—one stick in the A slot and swapping the two sticks, using both sticks at once, and even trying without the GPU by connecting HDMI directly to the motherboard. I've also attempted the paper clip test on the PSU, which seemed to indicate it's working. My specs are: Gigabyte B550i Aorus Pro AX Mini ITX, Ryzen 7 3700x, 2 x 32 GB Corsair Vengeance Pro DDR4, and a Radeon 6600 XT. I even tried resetting the BIOS, but nothing seems to work. My 3700X doesn't have integrated graphics, so that's out of the question for testing. I got a black screen error that said 'Critical_Process_Died (0xEF)' after it randomly black screened and said it needed to restart. Any suggestions on what might be causing this?
3 Answers
Yeah, you're right about the 3700X needing a GPU for display output. That’s a bummer, but removing the CPU and checking the socket/pins may help if there’s damage. Have you noticed any LED indicators on the motherboard? They can sometimes point out hardware issues as well. Best of luck with it!
It sounds like you’re having a pretty frustrating issue. Since the Ryzen 3700X doesn't have integrated graphics, make sure your display is connected to the Radeon 6600 XT after verifying that it’s powered properly with a PCIe power cable. I would also recommend removing the battery from the motherboard for about 10 minutes before putting it back to reset anything. Have you inspected the CPU for any pin damage? Sometimes that can cause these kinds of issues too. Also, pay attention to that clicking noise; is it definitely from the motherboard? That’s a bit unusual.
The clicking noise can be concerning, often it’s either a fan issue or something from the PSU. Since you mentioned this is an older build that was gently used, it might be worth checking for any dust buildup or loose connections. You said you reset the CMOS with the jumper, but if you haven’t done so yet, try unplugging it from power before you do. Also, how long have you owned this system? Did this issue start suddenly?
I got the system from a friend who used it lightly, and I’ve had it for about 1 to 1.5 years now. It just started acting up after a black screen error.
Yeah, it appears to be coming from the motherboard and not the PSU, which is strange since I didn’t think it had a speaker to create sounds. And yes, after posting I realized not having integrated graphics makes some tests pointless! Trying to troubleshoot here.