First build problem

[Jthe7th]

I was wondering if anyone could give me some assistance on a difficulty I'm having with my first build. The specs are in my signature below.

The issue is, on occasion, when I turn on the computer, though the lights, fans and everything within the case turn on, the os (XP MCE) itself does not initiate; there seems to be no hard drive activity. If I power the computer down, wait a few seconds and turn it on again, it will boot normally. Sometimes I have to power down a few times for the system to come on. Once the computer boots, everything seems to work fine.

Also, when I attempt to restart the computer, the same thing happens. Sometimes it will boot normally, other times there is nothing. But again I have to power down, wait a bit and try again.

Any thoughts as to what could be causing this?

[Dark Nova]

This seems to be an overheating problem. also make sure the CPU fan is well connected

having problems with new build, try this: http://forum.pcmech.com/showthread.php?t=12753

DID you already install the OS??

[not important]

And check ALL of your connections. SATA cables, RAM. Video etc. Did the PC boot normally before or is this a fresh build?

[Jthe7th]

Thanks for the replies. This site is awesome!

When I assembled the build, everything was just fine; I can't tell you how excited I was the moment I turned it on for the first time. Picture Dr. Frankenstein manicly screaming "it's alive!"

Anyway, it seems the problems started after I installed the OS. Initially, everything worked fine; the OS booted quickly. I have done no tweaking to the BIOS/CMOS at all other than disabling the onboard sound. Experiencing difficulty, I have taken every component out and reinstalled, double if not triple checking every connection; I even replaced the cables (especially the SATA cables) with new ones. I even re-installed the OS; a complete reformat, erasing the first install.

The frustrating aspect is that sometimes it will boot with no problem at all. I run every diagnostic I can think of (or at least have access to) and everything reports back at operating normally. Nonetheless, when I attempt a restart, or initial power on, everything lights up in the case, but I get nothing. Nothing at least until I power down and turn it back on.

If it was a power problem, wouldn't the system just shut down? This hasn't happened.

I just can't figure out if this is a hardware or software problem. I forgot to include the memory in my specs. I have GeIL Value Dual Channel PC3200 400MHz DDR. Is there the possibility that the memory is the culprit? Also, is it possible that the OS might be causing this?

[Cricket]

The problem may be the ECS motherboard.

Cricket

[jayb1234]

Sounds more likely to be hardware related than a problem with the OS. Try running the hard drive manufacturers diagnostic and run a memory test with memtest.

Might be the PSU. What brand and model is it.

Could be the motherboard.

The two diagnostics will narrow it down to PSU motherboard or video card.

Edit: Couldn't see the list while adding to my post. PSU is a good one so not as likely to be the problem.

[Jthe7th]

Well, I reset the CMOS and replaced the motherboard battery. Then I took everything out and replaced it, making sure all connections were secure. Voila, no more difficulties. I think maybe I had a connection wrong or something...those little arrows are hard to see sometimes.

Anyway, thanks so much for the input.