Stuck on DRAM LED -- PC WILL NOT BOOT

[XGZiDeus]

Building my son his rig.

CPU - 12700K
MB - Z690-A ROG Strix
RAM - G-Skill DDR4 4000 CL16 (2x16)
GPU- 3080 Ti EVGA FTW3


The damn thing won't boot. It's stuck on DRAM LED with RAM modules in slots 2 and 4 configuration. RAM modules in slots 1 and 3 doesn't work either.

But it boots if I only use ONE RAM module, and it only works if it's installed in slot two.

Any insights as to what might be the problem and ofcourse -- the solution.

[Shark007]

have you tried to clear cmos?

[XGZiDeus]

Yes. Did it twice. Updated BIOS as well.

[JohnAb]

Boot with each RAM stick in slot 2 and run MemTest86 on both sticks. You might have a defective stick.

[XGZiDeus]

JohnAb wrote:
Boot with each RAM stick in slot 2 and run MemTest86 on both sticks. You might have a defective stick.

I have done that too. Both RAM sticks work on slot 2. I also tried to ask google but I can't seem to get anywhere.

Thank you for helping out, it's appreciated.

[JohnAb]

Ok, next thing, did you update Intel ME firmware when you updated the BIOS?

[Silent_Scone]

Remove the CPU whilst checking for any socket/pin damage. Remount cooler and check for even mounting pressure and retest (this is the most common cause for the system dropping a module at POST)

[XGZiDeus]

@JohnAb @Silent_Scone@ROG

Thanks for sharing your insights. Unfortunately, nothing works. I have performed the following diagnostics:

1 Reseat CPU
2 Check for bent pins
3 Reseat RAM and tried all configurations for two modules
4 Made sure BIOS and Firmware are updated
5 Replace CMOS battery and reset CMOS
6 Boot with default (auto), XMP 1 & 2 profiles
7 Boot with default BIOS settings

Nothing works. Conclusion -- defective MB. My options are:

1 To let it run with just one RAM module. This is decreases performance and it's unappealing
2 Replace the MB. This will cost me more time, money and effort
3 File a warranty claim to ASUS. Turn around time around 4 weeks if approved (costs even more time & effort)

It's a dilemma

[JohnAb]

Sorry to hear that. Frustrating. Probably is worth contacting Asus support and discussing a return. Seems to me that a faulty motherboard is certainly a possibility 😞

It could also be a problematic CPU, but on balance of probabilities, probably more likely to be the motherboard I think.