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General discussion

Processor Initialization problem

Mar 2, 2004 6:38PM PST

Hey all,

I'm trying to build a computer for the first time but am stuck. The computer seems to hang at the processor initialization step in booting up. I'm using MSI's D-Bracket thing with the 4 diagnostic leds to tell me this. Nothing comes up on the screen, but everything seems put together correctly, the heatsink fan goes and everything whirs and buzzes. Any ideas?

It's a MSI K7N2 Delta motherboard. An Athlon XP 2000+, 128 DDR RAM and ASUS video Card.

Thanks

Discussion is locked

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Re:Processor Initialization problem
Mar 2, 2004 8:09PM PST

Remove all cables and parts except...

Motherboard, CPU/HeatSink/Fan (HSF), Power Supply Unit (PSU), and the speaker. Make it BEEP.

If you didn't check all the jumpers, then do that.

Next, remove the motheboard/CPU/HSF from the case and try it on cardboard to see if it will beep there.

No beeps? Call the supplier and ask what to send back.

In short, Athlons burn out in under a second if the power is applied and the heatsink isn't on proper. This makes these a little tough on first time builders.

Again, after the cardboard test, call to ask what they want to exchange.

bob

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Re:Processor Initialization problem
Mar 2, 2004 9:43PM PST

"Nothing comes up on screen"....

Try removing and reseating videocard (if this board has one). Also double-check to see that memory is seated correctly, and that the memory resides on the list of this particular board's tested memory. Hey, don't blow this last one off... I just made that mistake with Intel's flagship D875PBZ with Kingston Hyperex memory. I was told by Intel techs that the memory was "too agressive" for the board. ...and I've built over 50 machines (a hobby). Hard for me to believe for one of the fastest most stable boards available! The (my) machine's been running great for 6 months, then it started acting up.

(by the way.... you need more RAM once you're up and running!)

Good Luck, Floyd->>>

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Re:Processor Initialization problem
Mar 3, 2004 12:08AM PST

Can you enter the bios setup display? If so, then check those setting that reflect your current devices, setting, speed, etc. for at least default operation, then tweak. If you can't even get into that, then you made some error or something basic is at fault. AMD cpus don't like heat at all, so if you ran this setup w/o the HSF installed just for a quick test, that can fry the cpu, we're talking secs. here. Recheck any jumpers or connections don't take anything for granted. You should build the simplest system you can, no HDs, CD drives, use 1stick of ram, video, FD, and good power supply. Power supply should be at least 350W, but 400W+ is better.

good luck -----Willy