New Build; Major Problem

[hansel]

I just upgraded my computer with the following parts:

ASUS P5Q SE Plus Motherboard
Intel Core 2 Duo E8500 Processor
Seagate Barracuda 7200.11 ST3500320AS 500GB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive - OEM
CORSAIR 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory
SAPPHIRE 100256L Radeon HD 4670 1GB 128-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready CrossFire Supported Video Card
Corsair PSU 400W

I am running Windows Vista Ultimate 64bit.

The setup worked well for a couple of weeks. Then I get a harddrive error message. After that message, I wasn't able to boot up the computer.

When I try to boot up the computer, everything turns on (all the fans, haddrive, dvd drive) then after a few seconds they all stop. Then they turn on again and stay on. Problem is, nothing shows up on my monitor. I'm sure that the monitor works fine (power light is on). It just seems as if my computer isn't booting up.

I thought the harddrive was the problem so I replaced the new harddrive with my old one (IDE). Same problem persists.

Any ideas? I am very frustrated because I spent $500 on these parts just so my computer doesn't work

[rjfvillarosa]

Even though you had this sytem working at one point I strongly reccommend you try the out of case build described here:
http://forum.pcmech.com/showthread.php?t=132409

[MattSAN]

I noticed that you use a 400w power supply. THat right there may be the problem. 400w is a bit dim, even for a graphics card like the one you listed. Try upgrading to a 500-600w

[minsonngo]

Have you tried clearing the BIOS/CMOS?


Are you overclocking or running everything stock?


400 watt PSU is the minimum for that card. So at this point... it should be okay.


Did you double check and make sure you didn't knock any loose while working inside of your case? Try reseating the cables connections, memory modules, video card, and check the CPU heatsink/fan.

[hansel]

I started over, building the system outside of the case. Made sure everything is seated. I haven't overclocked the system. Still same problem.

Gonna run out to Best Buy to find a better PSU and try that. Wish me luck!

[glc]

You won't find anything better than a Corsair at Best Buy.

[hansel]

So I bought a BFG Tech 650 Watt PSU and the same thing happens.

I turn the computer on. All fans (CPU, Video Card, PSU) turn on for a few seconds, then shut off. Then they come back on again. Still, nothing on the monitor.

I hear no beeping sounds coming from the computer.

Any ideas of what is wrong? I really don't have access to another computer where I can swap parts to see what is defective .

[not important]

Did you try clearing the CMOS as minsonngo suggested? Are you certain you have all the required power connections properly connected?

[minsonngo]

Is your CPU heatsink/fan installed securely as it should be?

You already tired booting the system with just ONE stick of memory installed correct?


You already cleared the CMOS/BIOS?


If so, you may want to try swapping the current parts one by one into a know working compatible system to eliminate faulty components.

[chuck4456]

Originally Posted by glc You won't find anything better than a Corsair at Best Buy.

Yeah.
And the specs that I see indicate that 400 watter has a 30 amp rail so it should be able to power the hardware on that list.

hansel -
Try this.
Unplug the Power Supply.
Press in the power on button for about 5 seconds.
Set the CMOS jumper to clear.
Remove the CMOS battery - just press the little tab on the socket with a pocket screwdriver - it will pop right out.
Leave it out for about 30 minutes.
Put it back in.
Move the CMOS jumper back to NORMAL.
Plug the PSU back in and power on.
Report back.

[not important]

Quicker way to clear the CMOS : Shut down the PC, Turn OFF the PSU, REMOVE the power plug from the PSU, move the CMOS jumper from pins 1 & 2 to 2 & 3 for about 10 seconds. Move the jumper back to pins 1 & 2 and reboot.
This info is also in your MOBO manual.