Installed new CPU and now computer will not boot

ljm1090

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I just upgraded my rig from an i7 4770 (Haswell) to an i7 4790 (Devil's Canyon) and now it will not boot at all. All it does is turn on for about 4 seconds with all the lights and fans running then restarts itself and then repeats. I already sold the 4770 (bad idea in hindsight) so I cannot re-install it so see if it is a bad 4790. I bought the CPU straight from Intel so i doubt it is bad but it is possible. I've pulled all the RAM except 1 stick and uninstalled my video card so its using the integrated video and its still doing the same thing. Any help on this issue is greatly appreciated, it is destroying my sanity.

Thanks ahead of time.
 
Solution


Have you tried booting the computer without the CPU? Some motherboards can run basic functions without a CPU installed, because manufacturers know it may require some tuning before accepting a new piece. It may not work, but it's worth trying since your options aren't quite numerous. If it works, you'll need access to a second computer and use a flash drive to install the...

ljm1090

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The mobo is a Gigabyte H81.AMP-UP, as far as I know it does support the 4790, I'm not sure if my BIOS are up to date since it doesn't boot at all, the psu is a Thermaltake TR2 600W and yes I'm using the stock CPU cooler that came with the CPU. Thanks for the quick response.
 

SkyMembrane

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Many H81 chipset motherboards require a Bios update prior to using Haswell-Refresh CPUs. It is very possible that it isn't recognizing the CPU and automatically restarts itself to prevent any damage during its initial self-check. Many motherboards have features that allow for a bios to be updated even if the CPU isn't compatible, and while I'm not familiar with Gigabyte's Motherboards, I would recommend going through the instruction manual to look for some EZ update feature.
 

ljm1090

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I cannot seem to find a way to update the BIOS without a CPU for my mobo, I'm currently trying to find someone with a spare LGA 1150 CPU that I can temporarily use and will post if it works after I update the BIOS or not. If anybody knows a way to update the Gigabyte H81.AMP-up without a CPU I would definitely give that a go. Again thanks for the responses.
 

SkyMembrane

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Have you tried booting the computer without the CPU? Some motherboards can run basic functions without a CPU installed, because manufacturers know it may require some tuning before accepting a new piece. It may not work, but it's worth trying since your options aren't quite numerous. If it works, you'll need access to a second computer and use a flash drive to install the motherboard's update file on and access that drive from the bios to trigger the update. Motherboards are generally quite well designed and Gigabyte is a pretty big name in the industry, so I am confident that they have some practical features to help users who need particular updates to work with.

If all else fails, a motherboard is less expensive than a new CPU, so you could always get one that suits your needs.
 
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ljm1090

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I tried booting without any CPU at all and its still doing the same thing, I don't have any shops around me that will do anything like that, I'm still checking with everyone I know to see if someone has a spare but if I can't find someone with one I will probably just break down and buy the cheapest LGA 1150 CPU upgrade the BIOS, then install the 4790k.
 

ljm1090

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That is kind of what I'm leaning towards but wouldn't that force me to reinstall Windows? It wouldn't be the end of the world for me but it would take me a very long time to sift through my HDD and backup the stuff I need.
 

SkyMembrane

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Technically, yes reinstalling windows will be a priority, because the installation must be adapted to your motherboard's new settings. I'm sure that this is more trouble than you bargained for when you bought a new CPU and thought it would be plug-and-play, and I wish I could actually help you find a simpler solution, but I am running out of ideas. I usually try not to recommend buying new components if I can, since I know not everyone can either afford it or go through the trouble that comes with replacing some of them, but in this case I think it would the most reliable option.
 

halw

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Have you checked the Gigabyte web site to see if your MOBO will handle the new processor with an updated bios? If you find that a bios update will handle the 4790 you might want to install your old CPU, update the bios and then reinstalled the new processor.
 

SkyMembrane

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I already sold the 4770 (bad idea in hindsight) so I cannot re-install it...

He already sold it. I just thought of something though, have you done the CMOS reset before installing a new CPU in an used motherboard? You can find how on Gigabyte's website. It might just work.
 

ljm1090

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No Go on the CMOS reset but it was a good thought. I'm gonna order this: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819117618. I can't risk doing a reset due to all of the work/school stuff that I would have to go through and classes started about 2 weeks ago so this seems to be the cheapest/most convenient option for the me at the moment. Once I get the CPU I will post whether or not I get the system running. Again thanks everybody.
 

SkyMembrane

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The CMOS reset is only a Bios reset, it won't affect your personal files on the Hard Drive. It is used when changing only the CPU without changing the motherboard. I wouldn't order a new CPU before doing that, but if you have the money...

That person had a similar question about it, so feel free to read the thread and stop fearing the CMOS :p
http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/292535-30-explain-clearing-cmos-settings
 

SkyMembrane

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Oh, I thought you meant it was a no go because you couldn't do a reset due to school stuff haha. Then I guess the processor will work, if the CMOS didn't fix the problem, then a Bios update is probably what you need, and don't forget to do a CMOS reset after you're done with the Bios upgrade. This will ensure a smooth transition to the new update and CPU.
 

ljm1090

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Ok sorry for the delay, shipping took forever. The goal was to order an inexpensive CPU, update my mobo's BIOS, then install the 4790. But, when I install the inexpensive one (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819117618) the same thing is happening. The only difference is that it stays on for a little bit longer than what it was. I'm thinking buying a new mobo is the only way around this unless anybody has any other thoughts. Thanks again.
 

ljm1090

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I broke down and finally bought a Z97 mobo. Installed it today and everything works like a charm. Again thanks to everybody for the quick responses.

P.S. By default I did not have to do a system restore.
 

SkyMembrane

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Great, I'm glad it ended up working, even if it cost you some money :/ Have fun with your new build!

-Sky