No POST unless I switch slots the RAM is in

[dmdordan]

Hey guys, I'm having this really weird problem that I just can't seem to figure out. I've been troubleshooting various issues with my PC for probably a good couple of months now, and I can't seem to win. Basically, when I try to boot up my computer from being completely shut down, it won't POST. Instead, it turns on, runs the fans and lights, but that's it. No video signal or anything else. However, if I take my two sticks of RAM out and simply switch the slots on the same channel, it boots up no problem and runs like a champ until I shut down again. I have tried nearly everything I can think to.

My build:
CPU: i5-4670k
Mobo: ASUS Z97-A
Memory: Corsair Vengeance, 2x4gb
Graphics: EVGA 980ti
PSU: SeaSonic M12II 850W
Storage: 500gb Samsung 850 EVO, 1TB WD Blue, 3TB Seagate Barracuda
OS: Win 10
Cooling: Corsair H60

Steps I have tried:
-RMA graphics card (EVGA sent a new one)
-Update BIOS, then RMA previous mobo (Gigabyte Z87-UD4H)
-Replace mobo to ASUS Z97-A
-Obviously had to make sure everything was seated/plugged in in the build with installing 2 separate boards
-RMA CPU (Intel replaced it with a brand new one)
-MemTest86, 4 passes with zero errors
-Clean Win 10 install
-Custom set all RAM timings to factory recommendations, installed in recommended slots, though the same thing happens regardless of which channel is used.

Are there any recommendations on further troubleshooting anyone can suggest? It strikes me as a CPU or mobo issue with the whole turning on with high fans and no video thing, but I've replaced both with no change...

 

[dmdordan]

Sorry to bump, but I really need help

 

[KidA39]

Have you tried booting with one stick in instead of both? Your mobo manual should state the ideal placement of RAM and often you need to have only one stick in to post. if it boots fine then shutdown, place the second stick in then turn on.

 

[dmdordan]

Have you tried booting with one stick in instead of both?

For some reason, no I hadn't. After trying it, it booted fine with either stick of RAM in, so long as there was only one in. When I replaced the second, no dice on the boot. Taking them both out and switching which slots they are in still works. Must be an issue with the RAM not wanting to do dual channel or something.

 

[ael00]

if it is not a problem to reset your bios, just pull the mobo battery out and put it back in and see if it works after the hard reset.

This will remove any modifications you made in your bios after factory settings.

 

[AnUnusedUsername]

It looks like you've tried replacing just about everything but the RAM itself, but seeing as your issue is related to that, why not try replacing the RAM, possibly with a different kit? (sometimes a particular set of RAM doesn't play nice with a particular motherboard).

 

[dmdordan]

It looks like you've tried replacing just about everything but the RAM itself

lol don't I know it. It's been a string of issues that started as being unable to boot at all when I got a new graphics card. Eventually I RMA'd the mobo and Gigabyte said it had "minor damage," and sent it back fixed, so I'm sure that had something to do with everything. Although it made things better, it's still not at 100%. I just recently figured out that swapping the RAM slots allows it to boot, so it's looking like replacing it is indeed my next step. ael00, I will try resetting the BIOS as well

 

[gregor_00]

I know this was a few months ago but I am having the exact same problem as OP (only difference is I only have 1 stick of RAM) and I was wondering if you found a fix? Did replacing RAM fix anything?

 

[dmdordan]

I know this was a few months ago but I am having the exact same problem as OP (only difference is I only have 1 stick of RAM) and I was wondering if you found a fix? Did replacing RAM fix anything?

Hey, unfortunately replacing the RAM did not fix my issue. So for me, that only leaves the power supply. I've tested my system with a friend of mine's power supply and it ran like normal, so that's what seems to be the problem in my case. Good luck with your issue!

 

[gregor00]

I know this was a few months ago but I am having the exact same problem as OP (only difference is I only have 1 stick of RAM) and I was wondering if you found a fix? Did replacing RAM fix anything?

Hey, unfortunately replacing the RAM did not fix my issue. So for me, that only leaves the power supply. I've tested my system with a friend of mine's power supply and it ran like normal, so that's what seems to be the problem in my case. Good luck with your issue!

Thanks for the response, I just replaced my power supply and unfortunately i still have the same problem, i have replaced my motherboard once already and although it is unlikely it seems that i may have received another faulty motherboard, if not, possibly my CPU? You may not be able to help me but possibly someone else might? Thanks.

 

[RobC57]

I have same prob w/gigabyte board and i5 4690. I think it is CPU. Must be some gate busted and once it sees Chn A, then it can only see B, then A, and so on. I have recreated it with 2 pwr sup, 2 mobo, and 1 or 2 sticks ram. Will try to get Intel to replaced under warranty ... wish me luck