Help. Computer turns on but desplays nothing

DonQ

Reputable
Oct 5, 2014
4
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4,510
Hi guys,

First of all: pardon my english.

I need help with an issue that, for the love of me, I can't figure out. You see, my computer won't work after doing some cleaning. I've tested most components and they seem to be just fine. It just make no sense.

Here is the problem: the computer turns on but displays nothing. Beep code: 1 long, 2 shorts (GPU error according to my motherboard's manual).

Thankfully I have another computer to test the GPU and it works correctly. Conversely, I tested a second GPU with similar specifications on my computer and everything works perfectly. So:

A. My GPU isn't broken.

B. None of the other components (including the screen) are broken.

How is this even possible?

Aside of that, I've reseted the BIOS and removed any graphic drivers using Display Driver Uninstaller. The problem persists, however.

Please help me figure this out. I run out of ideas.
 
can be a few things to look at. look for dust or dirt in the video pci slot. if your mb has two slots try the card in the other slot see if it works. on your motherboard with the power off reseat the 4/8 pin power cable and check the video cable pins for a pushed in pin or cut wire. if it not a seating issues with the plugs it can be a lost leg in the power supply or your card or mb has an issue.
 

DonQ

Reputable
Oct 5, 2014
4
0
4,510
Okay, using the GPU in a different slot (PCIe x4) did work, which means that there must be dust in the main slot (PCIe x16). It's one of the first things that I discarded since the other GPU worked correctly on that very slot. But that's must be it. So, how can I clean the PCI slot safely?
 
few easy wavys are anything that blows air out like a air compressor or air pump. with the pc off and not power connected to it. use a non shedding paper towel and some rubbing alcohol. wipe the pins down on the gpu and plug the card in. pull the card out see if there any dirt on the card. take an old tooth brush and wipe the pins of the slot down..dont press down hard just wipe one way then look to see if there any dirt on the end of the connector.
 

DonQ

Reputable
Oct 5, 2014
4
0
4,510
Yesterday I tried to clean the PCIe slot with a toothbrush, alcohol and a non shedding paper towel (I couldn't get an air can) , and let it dry for the night. It didn't work. Does it mean the slot is damaged? Why does one of the GPUs works while the other doesn't?
 

DonQ

Reputable
Oct 5, 2014
4
0
4,510
Turns out, it was the socket. I don't why, but I took out the micro while cleaning (something completely unnecessary that may - and did - damage the motherboard) and somehow one of the socket pins ended bent. Thankfully I could fix it and it's working again.

May my stupidity be a lesson to all.

Cheers.