Troubleshooting a New PC Build: My Power Issues and What I’ve Learned

Building a custom PC can be an exhilarating but sometimes frustrating experience, especially when things don’t go as planned. Recently, I embarked on this journey by purchasing a new set of components for my latest build. Here’s a rundown of what I used:

• CPU: Ryzen 5 5600X
• Memory: T-Force 16GB RGB, 3600MHz
• Motherboard: Asus ROG STRIX B550-F Gaming Wi-Fi
• Graphics Card: 6700XT Swift 12GB
• Power Supply: BeQuiet! 750W Gold Certified
• Case: Corsair 4000D

After assembling the computer with these parts, I encountered a perplexing issue. When I tried to power on the system, I noticed that while the power supply was operational—the fan kicked in—the motherboard showed signs of life with the RGB lights illuminating the RAM. However, my excitement was short-lived as the system failed to post. To add to my confusion, the power supply also cycled on and off while emitting a clicking sound.

In an attempt to diagnose the problem, I took the PC to a repair shop, where the technician suggested that I might have inadvertently shorted the motherboard or that the power supply was faulty. Acting on this advice, I decided to replace both the motherboard with a new Asus ROG model and the power supply with a Corsair 750W unit.

After carefully reassembling the components once more, I was hopeful. The RGB lights were back on, and everything seemed to be fine—at least initially. I pressed the power button, but to my dismay, the same issue persisted. At this point, I suspected that the power supply was the culprit, so I replaced the BeQuiet unit with the new Corsair PSU. Unfortunately, this change resulted in a complete blackout; the system was unresponsive, with no lights or fan activity.

One aspect that has caused me some confusion is the 4-pin CPU connector on the ROG Strix motherboard. According to my research, connecting this wire is optional, but I can’t help but wonder if doing so might alter the outcome.

I’ve also tried connecting the front panel leads using a screwdriver trick, but to no avail. Now, the Corsair power supply doesn’t even exhibit any signs of power when plugged directly into the wall, leaving me uncertain of