New system build not getting power...

[kershner]

Hey guys, I'm having trouble with a new build (I'm a first time builder myself) - here's my post from tech-forums.net...

QUOTE:
My computer specs:
GIGABYTE GA-EP45-UD3R LGA 775 Intel P45 Motherboard
E5200 Wolfdale 2.4 GHZ Core 2 Duo Processor
CORSAIR XMS2 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400)
Corsair 400W PSU
Saphire Radeon 4830
Sunbeam Core Contact Freezer

Ok, so if you don't recall, I got all the parts for my first system build ever around 3-4 weeks ago, but ran into a problem. My mobo wasn't getting any power whatsoever (no lights, no fans, nothing at all).

Checked PSU via paper clip, works.
Checked chassis cables (power switch/reset switch, etc) in another mobo, got LED lights which lead me to believe they are fine.

Naturally, I thought it to be a mobo problem, so I RMAed it. I just got the mobo back yesterday, hook everything up...same exact problem.

Now I'm running out of time (with 30 day return policies, and what not), and I would obviously like to get this thing running, I really need your help.

My next thought is that it's the processor...could I try my Dell Dimension 3000 processor (Intel Celeron 2.4 GHZ) in my new Gigabyte mobo? Are they incompatible?

The only other thing I could think of would be the PSU, which I have tested to be good via the paper clip method, but it still could somehow not be providing power to the motherboard, right? Shouldn't I get some lights on the mobo regardless of whether or not it can POST successfully?

My PSU's 24-pin molex connector (the main mobo connector) has a missing pin, completely missing (light shines completely through it), no little brass thing at all...is that normal? I was told once that it is, I would like to double check. I'll post a picture later today, I have to head to work soon.

Also, one more thing...as this being my first build, I'm obviously ignorant about some things, like the CMOS and 'jumpers'...I really have no idea about these things, and have not messed with them at all....is there any way these could be the problem?

ANYTHING else you guys could think of, anything that is typically missed by first time builders, would really help me out...please help me to get this thing running! Thanks guys!

 

[Mrbumbum]

Make sure the switch on the back of the power supply is fliped on the "on" position.

Make sure the 24pin main power connecter and 4 or 8pin cpu power connector are both inplace all the way. Make sure they are cliped in, often you will hear a snap once you get it in all the way.

Make sure the case power switch / reset switch is pluged into your motherboards connector panel correctly (check your motherboard manual).

See if it turns on, if not try taking the motherboard out of the case and try again, if it boots your case is causing a short.

Still doesn't turn on? Verify that the powersupply is working, i'm not sure what a paper clip test is, the article I read on the subject says to insert it into the 24pin power connector only, but what if the cpu power connector is defective? So I would try the power supply in another system that you know works.

Jumpers can be the cause of failing to post, but since you had this issue with 2 differerant motherboards, the odds of them both having missing jumpers is slim. But check your motherboard manuel and make sure your not missing any jumpers on your board, and that they are in the correct position.

It is possible that the power switch in your case is broken, try another switch if your powersupply works in another computer.

 

[shortstuff_mt]

I'd go through this checklist and post your results.

http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/261145-31-build-post-checklist

 

[kershner]

That list is definitely helpful, I appreciate you guys not getting all noob hatey on me heh.

I think I forgot the mobo standoffs, as I didn't realize they come with the case and not the mobo (No mention of them in the mobo manual, didn't think to look in the case's).

Anyway, will my laying the mobo in the case without the standoffs cause any permanent damage? I'm obviously going to put those suckers in the first thing when I get home from school/work (any tips to install them?).

Thanks again guys.