Maximus VI Hero Q-code 53 even without ram

[ibuiltapc]

[SOLVED] - Turns out I didn't use the mb standoff screws.... -.-

Hi guys,

I just put together a PC with the following components
maximus vi hero
i7-4770k
corsair h100i
corsair cs 750m
kingston ddr3 2400 2x4gb
msi gtx 780
840 evo ssd


However, I've never booted successfully, ever.

1) First time boot with all components plugged in - power cuts out after 4 sec (didn't look at Q codes)
2) Absolutely nothing happens when I try to press power / start / whatnot.
3) I have to make sure power is completely off (PSU level) and board leds shut off.
4) When power comes back on, pc boots immediately without need to press power or start
5) In the span of 4 seconds, Q code flashes 15 (½ sec), then stays lit on 53 (3 sec) before power cuts out and it shuts down. DRAM Q_LED is also on before the power cut out. If I press the "MemOK" button anytime during this 4 sec, power cuts out.
> repeat from step 2.

Same behavior observed with following config
> Two ram in A1 and B1
> Only single ram (tried that on each and every of the 4 slots)
> No ram at all
> No ram AND no graphics card & SATA connection & front panel connection

Also checked the following
> 8pin ATX12V IS plugged in
> No CPU pin is bent
> Cooling is sitting centered (not skewing CPU position)

Due to the automatic shutdown mentioned in step 5), I could not even try to reflash the BIOS.

Any other obvious mistakes you guys see here? OR should I just send it back and get a new mobo?

THANKS!

[jab383]

Hi, ibuiltapc

Good looking set of stuff. Do you use a HDD or is the SSD your only storage?

We've seen this behavior before, and you've covered a lot of the normal troubleshooting steps already. A couple of suggestions:

Have you cleared CMOS? In case some BIOS parameter is in a garbage state, you can force everything to valid default conditions. Use the "CLRTC" jumper and perhaps remove the battery per the users guide.

A continuous START signal could cause these symptons, especially the "pc boots immediately..." There isn't a case/chassis mentioned in the configuration, but is a case front panel connected? Check for shorted power or reset buttons by disconnecting the panel cables. Also tap the motherboard START and RESET buttons a few times.

If these don't help, other members usually come along with more ideas.

Jeff

[ibuiltapc]

Hey Jeff,

Thanks for the reply. Turns out I somehow forgot to use the mb standoff screws, which means it kept shorting.
So to whoever that's counting, add 1 to that stupid mistake.