ASUS Z97I-Plus Will Not Boot Into Bios (Red DRAM)

8BitLincoln · Jan 16, 2015

I am receiving a solid red DRAM light when I attempt to boot my new build. I tried reseating both sticks of RAM in all sorts of configurations and I keep getting the same issue.

I tried the onboard MemOK! but it didn't seem to help.

My RAM is G.SKILL Ripjaws X Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600. Model number is F3-12800CL9D-8GBXL. I'm starting to think that maybe the RAM is incompatible.

I was thinking that maybe a bios update would fix the issue. However, I cannot access the bios and was planning on using Asus' Flashback feature. I am unsure how to do this as my case doesn't have a reset button.

Can anybody help?

alexoiu · Jan 16, 2015

What CPU using and what are the last 4 digits on a sticker like http://www.guru3d.com/miraserver/images/2011/990fx-sabertooth/IMG_4499.jpg ?

8BitLincoln · Jan 16, 2015

alexoiu :

The last four digits is 2105 and I'm using the i5-4690k.

alexoiu · Jan 16, 2015

Then no need to update the BIOS. Test with single RAM module both slots. Make sure that the stick is fully inserted.

8BitLincoln · Jan 16, 2015

alexoiu :

I have tested a single module in both slots. I tried this method with both sticks. Still nothing.

alexoiu · Jan 16, 2015

Try testing the board outside the case, for ruling out a short. If still the same, re-seat the CPU and check the socket for bent pins.

8BitLincoln · Jan 16, 2015

alexoiu :

I will try this and get back to you.

alexoiu · Jan 16, 2015

8BitLincoln · Jan 16, 2015

alexoiu :

I set up the motherboard outside of the case using one stick of RAM in A1. It would start, stop, start, stop, indefinitely. I switched the RAM to B1 and it booted up and went to BIOS. I added my second stick of RAM and it went back to starting and stopping indefinitely.

So what does this mean? Bad RAM slot?

alexoiu · Jan 16, 2015

I suspect a bent pin in the CPU socket. What CPU cooler using?

8BitLincoln · Jan 16, 2015

alexoiu :

I'm using the Noctua NH-L9I. I also tried removing the CMOS battery as a friend suggested, it didn't help. I tried both sticks of RAM in B1 and it goes to BIOS. It only starts giving me trouble when I put something in A1.

alexoiu · Jan 16, 2015

It's a communication issue CPU - RAM slot.
The cooler might be overtightened. Try loosening a bit the screws.
If still no go, I would re-seat the CPU and check the socket for bent pins.

8BitLincoln · Jan 16, 2015

alexoiu :

I tried loosening the CPU cooler, no go. I removed the CPU and had a look at the pins. Here is a photo. This is only my second build but they look fine to me.

http://i.imgur.com/JKyEj4N.jpg?1

When I reseat it, should I clean it and re-apply the thermal paste?

alexoiu · Jan 16, 2015

Pins are OK. Yes, clean the old paste. If still having the stock Intel cooler, try installing and test with it.

8BitLincoln · Jan 16, 2015

alexoiu :

I'll try the stock cooler. Any theories on why the aftermarket cooler would cause trouble?

8BitLincoln · Jan 16, 2015

Okay, so I installed the CPU cooler as per manufacturer instructions, booted it up outside of the case and it makes no difference. Still goes into Bios when the RAM module is in B1 but hangs with a solid red DRAM light when it occupies the A1 slot.

alexoiu · Jan 16, 2015

Then I suggest RMA-ing both board and CPU.

8BitLincoln · Jan 16, 2015

Okay, thank you. I kind of expected that I would have to RMA the board. What's your reasoning behind RMA-ing the CPU?

alexoiu · Jan 16, 2015

The memory controller is integrated into the CPU.

8BitLincoln · Jan 16, 2015

Okay, thank you very much for your time and effort. It was very appreciated.

alexoiu · Jan 16, 2015

No problem. Please post back when solving the issue.

ASUS Z97I-Plus Will Not Boot Into Bios (Red DRAM)

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