Troubleshooting Intermittent CPU Light, No Display, and Random Reboots After Upgrading GPU and PSU
Upgrading your PC components is often a straightforward process, but it can sometimes introduce unexpected issues. Recently, after installing a new GPU and PSU, you might be facing symptoms such as an intermittent CPU debug indicator, lack of display output, and unpredictable system reboots. Here’s a comprehensive look at potential causes and troubleshooting steps to help resolve these problems.
System Specifications
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 5600
- Motherboard: MSI B350 Tomahawk
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce 9060 XT (used for 1 week)
- Power Supply: MSI MAG R750GN PCIe5 750W 80+ Gold (used for 1 week)
- Memory: Corsair Vengeance DDR4 16GB (2x8GB modules)
Symptom Overview
- Initial power-on leads to no display output; CPU debug LED on motherboard remains lit.
- After several attempts, Windows boots and displays a recovery prompt (“Choose an option”).
- Intermittent display loss during use; CPU debug light activates again.
- Occasional complete failure to boot.
- When it does boot, stability varies; system may stay on, but the issue recurs unpredictably.
- The motherboard’s debug LEDs flash sequentially when the display goes out, hinting at potential hardware or power delivery issues.
Initial Observations
Though the GPU and PSU are new, they have only been in use for about a week. The CPU and motherboard had been stable for over a year, suggesting that the problem likely originates from the recent hardware changes or their interaction with existing components.
What Has Been Tried So Far
- Reseating RAM modules
- Resetting BIOS settings
- Monitoring temperatures (found within normal ranges)
- Updating BIOS firmware
While these steps are fundamental, persistent issues often require deeper diagnosis.
Probable Causes and Troubleshooting Strategies
1. Power Supply and Connection Checks
– Verify all power connectors: Ensure the CPU power connector (4/8-pin) and PCIe power connectors to the GPU are securely attached.
– Test with a different PSU: If available, swap out the PSU to rule out power delivery issues.
– Inspect cables and connectors: Look for bent pins or damaged cables that could cause intermittent contact.
**2. Compatibility
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