New Build System Won't Start - Please Help

burn7739 · 29 Dec 2014 at 08:07

My new system build won't properly start although all case fans and GPU fans are running fine. There are no beeps and nothing is displayed on my monitor which is currently connected with an HDMI lead, although when powering up the monitor message does change from 'No Cable Connected' to 'No Signal'.

The components are listed below:

CPU: AMD FX-8320 3.5GHz 8-Core
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-970A-UD3P ATX AM3+ Rev 1
Memory: G.Skill Sniper Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-2133
Storage1: Kingston SSDNow V300 Series 120GB 2.5" SSD
Storage2: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM
Video Card: Gigabyte GeForce GTX 760 2GB WINDFORCE
Case: Corsair 230T Windowed-BLUE ATX Mid Tower
Power Supply: SeaSonic 550W ATX12V / EPS12V
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 8.1 (OEM) (64-bit)

There is no DVD drive as we're planning to boot and install OS from USB.

All leads have been re-connected to the relevant components including 8 pin CPU. I have also tried starting it with one stick of RAM and one storage device only but still no results. Every anti-static precaution has been taken during the build.

It has been suggested that the RAM is unsuitable (2133 MHz) but would this prevent the machine from starting altogether?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. My son is desperate to get this system up and running! Thanks

burn7739 · 29 Dec 2014 at 08:38

I checked the BIOS version required for the CPU I have and it is 'F1' version. This is the first BIOS release for this Motherboard so I would assume that it is ok.

There is no onboard video or LEDs

I was kind of aware that the memory was unsuitable but thought I might get it to POST.

Please keep the ideas coming. Thanks all

burn7739 · 29 Dec 2014 at 09:51

Can I check for agreement that the most likely issue at this stage is related to wrong memory and given that, I should invest in something like 8GB (2x4GB) Crucial Ballistix Sport 1600MHz CL9 DDR3 Dual Channel Kit ?

burn7739 · 29 Dec 2014 at 09:58

Correct, Rev 1 version, thanks

burn7739 · 29 Dec 2014 at 10:08

I haven't tried a CMOS reset at this stage but could give that a go shortly...

I assume you disagree that the current RAM will prevent a successful POST?

burn7739 · 30 Dec 2014 at 08:10

Many thanks all for your help and support. After a CMOS reset, removal and re-fit of CPU cooler and swap for different RAM stick she booted up and ran just fine. It could have been any one of those issues.