Hi all,
I have had two ROG Strix laptops (G513QM, Currently G614JV) in the past two years and they have both been bricked (yes, completely bricked) by the same bug.
Steps to reproduce:
- Update and install a Windows Update (do not restart) and put computer into hibernation mode
- Turn on computer after hibernation
- Restart for a Windows Update
- If the Windows loading throbber doesn't show up (where the bug starts), shut down the computer
- Turn the computer back on and see that it doesn't work
Side Effects:
- Bricked computer. Keyboard lights and light bar (depending on model) turn on, however this is where functionality stops. Caps lock key is unresponsive, the status light (light bulb icon) is solid white, the charger light works like normal however the disk status icon is always black except for a few milliseconds on boot. No boot, no display, just darkness.
Potential Fixes:
- Holding power button for 30-60 seconds: Does not work
- Holding power button and F2/DEL/ESC/insert bios key here: Does not work
- Disconnect battery, discharge system: Does not work
- Disconnect RAM, SSD, or both: Does not do anything (not that it would)
All of these signs point to a BIOS bug that bricks the system. These are very specific steps and I'm not sure how/why they brick the BIOS, but I assume its the BIOS itself, as the computer is being shut down before windows has loaded.
Keep in mind that Asus's own support videos/guides tell users to force shut down the computer when no loading throbber is seen.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VyOA2FFMafA (0:00->0:45, exact message at 0:30)
Website: https://www.asus.com/me-en/support/FAQ/1042613/
Quote from website (so you don't have to search for it):
If your device is stuck at the ASUS logo screen, try forcefully shutting down the computer and then restarting it. Sometimes, this issue is temporary.
My current laptop is in for repairs under warranty because of this bug (G614JV) and I'm worried that Asus will reject my claim. Truly hope this gets fixed.
