ASRock Z97 Extreme 3 Won't allow 32GB of RAM

MentalDjent

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Oct 26, 2015
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4,510
I'm trying to install 32 GB of RAM and I get 4 quick diagnostic beeps from my motherboard. It can run just fine with 2 of the 8GB sticks in the A1 and B1 positions, but when I try to install the rest of the set it fails to boot, and power cycles. Any suggestions? For reference, here is my full build
 
Solution
Here is Guru3D's power supply recommendation:
•GeForce GTX 970 or 980 in 2-way SLI - On your average system the cards require you to have an 700~800 Watt power supply unit as minimum.
http://www.guru3d.com/articles_pages/geforce_gtx_970_sli_review,4.html

If you are going to overclock your GPU or processor, then we do recommend you purchase something with some more stamina.

What would happen if your PSU can't cope with the load:
•Bad 3D performance
•Crashing games
•Spontaneous reset or imminent shutdown of the PC
•Freezing during gameplay
•PSU overload can cause it to break down

Here is JonnyGURU review of RM650 where they actually repaired the power supply.
http://www.jonnyguru.com/modules.php?name=NDReviews&file=print&reid=363

MentalDjent

Reputable
Oct 26, 2015
6
0
4,510


I'm excited to try this; however, I've ran into another hang up.
My PC now doesn't display anything when it powers on. I get no diagnostic beeps, and no graphical response. My machine turns on, and is able to feed power to all of the components, including the video card. I've tried to pick up a visual signal from various ports, on my integrated graphical output (both with the video card in and out) and my video card with no response. I've checked the wiring, and nothing I see seems out of place. I'm still using 16GB of RAM, as this error first occurred during shutdown to access the MOBO diagnostic screen. I'm at a loss for what to do next.
 
Here is Guru3D's power supply recommendation:
•GeForce GTX 970 or 980 in 2-way SLI - On your average system the cards require you to have an 700~800 Watt power supply unit as minimum.
http://www.guru3d.com/articles_pages/geforce_gtx_970_sli_review,4.html

If you are going to overclock your GPU or processor, then we do recommend you purchase something with some more stamina.

What would happen if your PSU can't cope with the load:
•Bad 3D performance
•Crashing games
•Spontaneous reset or imminent shutdown of the PC
•Freezing during gameplay
•PSU overload can cause it to break down

Here is JonnyGURU review of RM650 where they actually repaired the power supply.
http://www.jonnyguru.com/modules.php?name=NDReviews&file=print&reid=363
 
Solution

MentalDjent

Reputable
Oct 26, 2015
6
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4,510

Good to know. Currently, I am not running in SLI, and am only using one graphics card, I might upgrade at some point, and I suppose I should get a more powerful power supply at that point.
 

MentalDjent

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Oct 26, 2015
6
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4,510
So after a few tests I've come to some conclusions. I tested the PSU on a couple other machines at work and it all work fine, everything powered on and the machines operated as normal. This leads me to believe the problem lies elsewhere, and I'm wondering where that might be. Anyone have any ideas? I've been advised that it might be my motherboard, but I'd like to do more investigating before I ask for a replacement. Thanks for all your help so far.
 

MentalDjent

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Oct 26, 2015
6
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4,510


Yes, I was able to install the essential mobo drivers from the provided disk, and then install the latest drivers and BIOS from the website. My machine was working fine when I shut it down to access the mobo diagnostic screen (I was about to increase the voltage as suggested), but I never got any video output after shutting it down. I had been able to turn my computer on and off while receiving video prior to this, and I'm having some trouble pinpointing what the exact problem is.

[UPDATE]
I tested my RAM on another machine, and all but one of the sticks work. I'm going to test the good sticks on my own PC to make sure that isn't the root of the problem, but that would at least explain why it won't allow me to use all 4 sticks simultaneously.
 

MentalDjent

Reputable
Oct 26, 2015
6
0
4,510
So after sending in both my MOBO and RAM, I just reinstalled everything into my computer, and I'm experiencing the same initial problem; however I no longer am getting a diagnostic beep or anything like that. The computer simply turns on and nothing happens on screen. I am so frustrated, I have no idea where to try to diagnose next, I've already:

- Checked both the Dedicated and Integrated graphics outputs, also with the Video Card out
- Switched sticks/slots for RAM
- Disconnected different SATA devices
- Checked all the connections on the board

Please help, I just want my machine to be working, not the worlds most expensive desk extender.