Z790 Apex Encore - Issues after updating BIOS to 1703

[versedispersed]

I updated to BIOS 1703 from 1402 and the PC has experienced some major lag issues. When Windows is loading (after the spinning circle completes) the PC freezes for about 30 seconds. After it finally gets into Windows the PC will freeze again for another 30 seconds. I think it might have to do with the Intel ME that got auto updated with the 1703 BIOS.  I downgraded BIOS to 1402, same issues occur, I updated to 1503 and the issue persists. I ran Memtest at power on and no errors were found. I saw in another thread that the Dark Hero had a 1703 BIOS update then it disappeared and a 1704 BIOS was released.

I also ran Intel Processor Diagnostic Tool 64bit, and no issues were found. I have all of the latest drivers from the webpage from my MB. Any help is appreciated!

Hardware: Asus ROG Maximus z790 Apex Encore, Intel i9 14900KF, TeamGroup Xtreem 48GB (2x24) 8000 MT/s, Asus ROG Strix 4090, Samsung 980 Pro 2TB.

[dennys2009]

Hi!
1. When did you roll back the bios to version 1402, did you roll around Windows to the old checkpoint? To exclude the influence of drivers on the problem.
2. After installing Bios 1703, updated all possible drivers?

[versedispersed]

I rolled back to 1402 after I notice the issue occuring. I did not roll back any Windows updates.

Drivers were already up to date prior to BIOS Update.

[achugh]

Have you checked Windows Event Viewer or tried to startup Windows with Debug Logs to see where exactly Windows is waiting? What happens if you open System Configuration and select Diagnostic Startup to startup Windows? Does everything load properly?

If everything loads properly then it means some drive or application is causing issue. You can use Sysinternals AutoRuns tool to find out what is causing this delay. You can switch to Normal Startup once you are done troubleshooting.

I hope this information helps you narrow down your issue.

[versedispersed]

There weren't any significant Windows Event Log entries that would help me identify the cause.

But I found the issue! One of my ram slots went bad somehow. smh

[Silent_Scone]

Seems somewhat too coincidental. Did you check to see if the issue was happening at stock? I.e without XMP enabled.

[versedispersed]

My bad in delayed response. I have tested with Default settings with 1 RAM stick in DIMM_A. PC won't post, LED numbers that cycle are 31, 54, 55. DIMM_A seems f'd up for some reason. I looked in the slot with a flashlight, I didn't see any debris.

[Silent_Scone]

With one module, test in slot A2. Try reseating the CPU, check the CPU pin pad and socket for any debris or bent pins and remount the cooler (ensure consistent mounting pressure).

[versedispersed]

I followed your advice, no bent pins, no debris on CPU pin pad or socket, the issue remains. Somehow I think the CPU got damaged with all the issues Intel has been having.  But I started this CPU on BIOS 1503, so it's really frustrating. Here is a video of the LED codes loop: https://streamable.com/nzp57a