Potential issue using Crucial DRAM module on new MSI H310M-PRO mobo

[banibrata.dutta]

Currently assembling an i5-8400 system, using an MSI H310M-PRO-VH motherboard, with a single 8GB Crucial DDR4 stick (part #: CT8G4DFD824A). This is not a Gaming configuration, but a high-end developer workstation (no discrete graphics card). I am using a Corsair VS450 PSU (450W, 80+ rated). Having put everything together, I've now come across a problem, where I don't got to the POST stage. I have a functional TFT 19" monitor connected to VGA port, it never gets a signal.

Please note that, apart from the TFT monitor, everything is absolutely brand-new. I've assembled several desktops (not as a profession), but take great care (use anti-static wrist-band, grounded work-pad etc.) -- so the chances of static-fry, misalignment in inserting modules, polarity reversals, power plugs etc. is zero. As every time, I read each piece of documentation and have been following every step as instructed.

In spite of that, based on recommendations from other threads, I've carefully inspected the CPU socket for any bent pins using a 5x high-quality magnifying glass and also a 20x loupe to scan each pin, literally pin-by-pin and row-by-row. This was done under very good lighting conditions and by turning the motherboard around from various angles. So, I think this aspect can be ruled out.

The MSI motherboard has EZ-debug LEDs which seem to indicate a DRAM related issue. Here's why I think it is the case.

■ If I have the DRAM module installed (on DDR slot-1, i.e. nearest to CPU) the mobo debug-LEDs glow in following repeating pattern -- DRAM-led: 5 seconds, CPU-led: 1 second
■ If I remove the DRAM module from motherboard, the debug-LED for DRAM is glowing continuously, CPU-led is not glowing.

The Crucial DDR4 stick's specifications are:

• 
  ■ DDR4 PC4-19200
  ■ CL=17
  ■ Dual Ranked
  ■ x8 based
  ■ Unbuffered
  ■ NON-ECC
  ■ DDR4-2400
  ■ 1.2V
  ■ 1024Meg x 64

While I've posted my query on MSI's forum as well, and awaiting feedback, but I see that this site is a lot more active and has lot of very knowledgeable people as well. Would really appreciate pointers on what to do next, how to troubleshoot further. I am from India, and the easy / comfortable RMA process folks in N.America or Europe are used to, is almost non-existent. Currently, I do not have access to spare DRAM or spare mobo. I hope I've not landed with a lemon!

TIA

 

[alexoiu]

Have you tested the second RAM slot?

 

[banibrata.dutta]

@alexoiu AFAIK, for DRAMs you cannot populate slot#2/slot-B unless slot#1/slot-A is not populated. I might be mistaken but I recollect reading this somewhere a while back. Could you confirm if that is untrue ?

Kindly note that the H310 mobos have only 2 DRAM slots, and I am using only 1 module.

 

[alexoiu]

Untrue. I suggest testing it. Make sure that the RAM is correctly inserted.

 

[banibrata.dutta]

Thanks a lot @alexoiu. That solved it. I spent 2 sleepless nights wondering how and where could I've gone wrong in spite of so much precaution. Learnt something new too.

However, I suppose this means that the slot-1/slot-A is bad. Is that considered a reasonable reason for an RMA ? I've never had such a problem with any other Mobo before. This was my first MSI. I've assembled several ASUS, Gigabyte and Biostars in the past.

 

[alexoiu]

You're welcome. Not sure about the first slot. Since working, and RMA process too long, an option would be leaving it like that.