Or by only putting one stick of memory in, or changing the slot you’re using.

I was assembling a computer and everything seemed to be correct, the fan would spin up, I’d get some lights, but there was no image on the screen, not even the BIOS. I saw someone else make this suggestion and didn’t think it was likely to work, but it did. First I just tried one stick, and it booted. Then I tried both sticks and it didn’t work, but I reseated and then it did.

(Also worth pointing out that your motherboard should have diagnostic lights which if you check the documentation may point out which component has an issue)

Thinking about Lemmy’s demographics many here may have heard of something like this, or have more helpful suggestions about troubleshooting which would be welcome. But thought I’d write out a little post about my experience to contribute to Lemmy SEO supremacy.

  • Hildegarde
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    fedilink
    79 months ago

    First check its plugged in. Then check the power supply is turned on. Then check that the power button is connected to the motherboard.

    It’s probably something dumb keeping your PC from working. You probably were worried about the memory or CPU so you paid attention. It’s the trivial things that are missed.

    The first paragraph is autobiographical. I messed all those up on my first attempt. :-/

    • @entropicdrift
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      59 months ago

      The first time I built a computer, it didn’t boot on the first several tries. Turned out I had the motherboard screwed onto the chassis too tightly, causing a short.

      The list in your comment is a good one. There’s just so many little basic electrical things that can potentially go wrong.