New system won't start

xXLaraXx

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Mar 10, 2014
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I have recently bought the parts to build my own pc (see http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/answers/id-2058500/building-software.html). I put it all together, and it wouldn't start (code 69 on the motherboard (Asus z9pa-u8)). So I took out both memory modules and the graphics card, and it did start.

However, when I put back the second memory module, I get the code 67, even when leaving the graphics card out. When I have one memory module, and put the graphics card back in, I get the code 00, and I don't get any image on screen, no matter what port I use (on both MoBo and graphics card).

Is there anyone here that can help?
 
xXLaraXx,

The results when removing the memory and then new error messages when replacing the modules, seems to indicate your original idea of memory problems. Although it's possible the RAM slots are defective, if the motherboard were faulty, there is less chance you would have started to BIOS.

Because either memory module produced non-starting / error codes, it seems that the next logical step would be to return the RAM and choose another from the ASUS compatible list. Perhaps you were correct that the slight difference in the model number suffix is the meaningful aspect. When upgrading an older Dell Precision, I had to buy RAM three times and in one case the model number was only a single letter different- a "U" instead of an "E". It was mistakenly listed and was fundamental- the difference between ECC and non-ECC.

Cheers,

BambiBoom

 

xXLaraXx

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Mar 10, 2014
15
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4,510
I have solved the code 00 problem (with help from ASUS service desk), by switching the VGA jumper on the motherboard. The graphics card is now working, however the problem with the memory persists.

The configuration in the MoBo manual states that memory module 1 goes in slot DIMM_A1, and the second memory module goes in slot DIMM_C1. However, am I allowed to put the second memory module in another slot (for example DIMM_B1 which is for module 3)? Or won't that work anyways? I have sent the same question to the ASUS servicedesk, and am waiting for their response.

Thanks again for thinking here with me and responding bambiboom :)
 
xXLaraXx,

That makes sense regarding the graphics card. . The situation is always difficult when there is more than one problem- or when a problem is intermittent. The 188-page manual for the ASUS Z9PA-U8 board is astoundingly complex, so much so that I am revising my enthusiasm for building a system~ The two that I built in the mid 90's seemed quite simple and that was the era when "Plug-N-Play" was very new- there were still jumpers on hard drives. I admire your discipline!

The placement of memory is important and there may be some effect in that you are using two RAM modules in what may four channel memory. There is always a precise order to populate the memory and it is worthwhile checking to see if the sequence is different depending on the number of slots filled. When I bought my HP z420 system, it had 4 X 2GB memory. In adding 4 X 4GB, I saw that the all the 2GB modules needed to be relocated, as the larger capacity modules go in one channel, alternating slots, and the 2GB pieces in a second set alternating. This order is required so that the four channel memory gets the best results. Confusing! The memory order is so important, the z420 has a diagram on the inside of the case door.

Very good to read of progress. Let me know what happens- I need to study!

Cheers,

BambiBoom