Question Computer boots to a black screen ?

Oct 28, 2021
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Hi all,

Recently my computer has started to intermittently show a blank screen on boot up. There doesn't seem to be a consistent trigger for this, sometimes several normal boots etc just fine, other times multiple boots to black screen. The computer is 7+ years old and possibly just passed its used by date. It appears the computer is actually booting when it goes to a black screen (evidenced by power to devices plugged in, things like iPhone asking if computer is trusted, Win+Ctrl+Shift+B resulting in a beep). Steps taken/info to remediate the issue currently include;

  • This behavior started soon after I added a UPS, I have also tried removing the UPS, same behavior.
  • Fans all start up.
  • Occasionally the PC will start for a second and then restart again
  • Checked CPU & GPU temps - fine when it does boot and run under load for some period of time.
  • Replaced power supply
  • Changed RAM
  • Tried alternate graphics card - same behavior
  • Changed motherboard - like for like replacement same behavior
Specs
  • Intel Core i5 3550P
  • GPU NVIDIA GTX660
  • Motherboard Gigabyte Tech B75M-D3H
I am think by process of elimination that the CPU is going bad? I am not super computer hardware savvy, learning as I go. Appreciate any thoughts or suggestions.

EDIT: Computer has now started freezing randomly. Screen stays on whatever was on the screen but no input device will work, music stops etc.

Thanks!
 
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