Brand new build - Q code 66

Elmtree

Reputable
Oct 2, 2015
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4,510
I am brand new to building computers. My new mobo is an Asus A88X-Pro, and my RAM is G.SKILL Ripjaws X Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600.

After installing everything, and starting it up, my monitor says "no signal detected" and goes into standby. So I open up the case and see Q-code 66 on the motherboard.

I look up that Q-code in the mobo manual and it says "CPU DXE initialization is started." I have no idea what that means, and a google search doesn't help me, so I call ASUS tech support.

At first, ASUS has no idea what that code means either, so after a long wait they determine that it has to do with my RAM. They tell me that because my ram is not on the QVL, I need to replace the ram. So my first question is (1) Is that really a thing? Has anyone else purchased perfectly good *brand new* RAM, and because it's not on the QVL, it doesn't work with that motherboard?

So, I tried switching the slots that the two RAM sticks were plugged into, I tried placing them individually in each of the four slots by themselves. Same code every time. Since that didn't work, ASUS suggested that the mobo may be grounded out, but I used the 9 standoffs, so I was sure that wasn't the issue. So, finally they told me that I needed to flashback the bios. (2) What is flashing back the bios, and what does that do? (I haven't tried that yet)

(3) Has anyone else had this experience? Any suggestions? (4) Is it possible/likely that the DIMM slots on my motherboard are just bad?
 
What cpu do you have? And which BIOS is on your MB?
How about check the cpu bent pin or not.

About the RAM is not in the QVL, you don't need buy the new RAM, the RAM is not on the list because they don't test the RAM yet, it does not mean the RAM does not compatible to the MB, as long as the RAM spec does match the MB requirements you should be fine. But double check to see the cpu has bent pin or not. Also check the cpu support list to see the MB with the right BIOS to support your cpu. If the MB does have the right BIOS you need upgrade ( or flash ) the BIOS by USB BIOS Flashback.
More info for USB BIOS Flashback ( it is for intel system, but it will be same as the AMD MB) http://rog.asus.com/technology/republic-of-gamers-motherboard-innovations/usb-bios-flashback/
 
CPU: AMD Athelon x4 860K Quad-Core 3.7 GHz Socket FM2+ 95W
The CPU originally had a few bent pins and wouldn't sit completely in the socket. So, I looked up how to bend them back and fixed it. The CPU then dropped right into the socket.

As for the BIOS on the MB, I have no idea... Just whatever came on the MB out of the box. I'll try the USB Flashback if I can find the correct upgrade for it.