No POST on first startup with DRAM led lit (PRIME Z690-A, Core i7-13700K, Corsair Vengeance 2x32GB)

[singultus]

Hi everyone!

I build a new PC, 5th in my life (meaning I know where the different parts go but not much more).

Specs:
PRIME Z690-A
Core i7-13700K
Corsair Vengeance 2x32GB (CMK64GX5M2B5200C40)

Unfortunately it doesn't boot, screen is blank. I see a short red flash of the red CPU Q-led and then a persisting yellow DRAM led. Removing all ram and trying both sticks alone in all the slots didn't help. Hardware looks good, no dirt.

I finally found out that the CMK64GX5M2B5200C40 is not listed in the QVL of the Z690-A. Dang! All the similar ones are, but that one isn't. 

Now, is this the most likely cause? Should I buy new Ram?

Or could it be a BIOS version issue? The forums seem full of problems with outdated BIOSs, however, I never performed BIOS Flashback and don't even know, whether it is possible with the Z690-A (no such button?).

Or is faulty hardware the most probable solution and I should return it to the store?

Any help is appreciated!

Cheers, singultus

[Silent_Scone]

Hello,

if the DRAM QLED is continually lit:

1) Use the Clear CMOS button (see manual)

2) Install one module into a lot A2

3) Remove the CPU whilst checking for any socket pin damage, then reseat cpu whilst checking cooler for even mounting pressure.

4) Not being on the QVL may result in issues, but mostly when overclocked (XMP). There shouldn’t be an issue when running the system at stock.

[singultus]

Hi Silent Scone

Thanks for your inputs. Unfortunately nothing new

1) All RAM removed, power disconnected, pressed onboard Clear CMOS button 30s. Reinserted one module in A2, power connected and start -> problem persists

2) Same as above but with the other RAM module -> problem persists

3) CPU removed. Pins look ok to me, no dirt. Thermal paste looks evenly distributed. Reinstalled be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4, tightened both screws fully, power connected and start -> problem persists

What now?

[big72dan · Accepted solution]

Z690 motherboards need to be updated to latest BIOS version, for it to support the 13 Gen Intel CPU. May not boot, if BIOS is outdated. Might be easier to switch it out for a Z790 motherboard.

[singultus]

Well, replacing the motherboard comes with quite an additional cost and effort to rebuild everything. Is there a way to update the BIOS in this state? Somewhere I read about buying a cheap CPU to be able to reach the BIOS in such cases. This is quite the overkill, especially since this CPU is on the QVL of the MB...

[big72dan]

If your motherboard doesn't have a BIOS flashback button. Then you will have to install a 12th gen Intel CPU temporary, to update BIOS. Or switch to Z790 motherboard.

[Silent_Scone · Accepted solution]

See if a system integrator can flash the board for you. Most reputable etailers offer this service

[singultus]

12th generation CPU installed -> Win 10 installed ->  Intel ME updated (let armory crate run and update first, otherwise the ME update tool won't run because of "MEI drivers") -> Updated BIOS using EZ Flash 3 -> switched CPU to 13th generation -> everything is up and running.

It was really a pain for a CPU listed as compatible. Two personal conclusions:

1. Only buy MBs with BIOS flashback.
2. Spend an hour googling for potential problems before buying hardware.

[singultus]

This is pretty annoying. I'll furnish a 12th gen Intel CPU to get the update done. However, I'm wondering about the Intel ME update. According to the support site the BIOS Z690-A BIOS 2403 requires an update of the Intel ME firmware to version 16.1.25.2020. This update comes as a windows installer. So, do I really have to install a windows on the system with the temporary CPU in order to update Intel ME and then update the BIOS?  

[Silent_Scone]

You should update both, yes. With the 12th gen CPU installed, update the ME firmware prior to flashing the UEFI to 2403