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

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  1. It sounds like you’re experiencing a complex power issue with your new build, which can be quite challenging. Here are some troubleshooting steps and considerations that might help you identify and resolve the problem:

    • Ensure all power connections are secure, including the 24-pin ATX and 8-pin (or 4-pin) CPU power connectors on the motherboard. Sometimes, a loose connection can prevent the system from powering on properly.
    • Since you’ve mentioned connecting the 4-pin CPU connector being optional, try connecting it anyway, as many modern motherboards rely on both power sources to start properly—especially with higher-wattage CPUs and components.
    • Double-check the front panel connections, including the power switch, reset switch, and LED indicators. Using a screwdriver to short the power switch pins can work, but verify that these wires are correctly connected according to your motherboard’s manual.
    • Test your power supply outside of the PC with a dedicated PSU tester or by shorting the green wire (PS_ON) and any black ground wire on the 24-pin connector using a paperclip to see if it powers up. If the PSU isn’t responding when connected directly, it might be faulty.
    • Confirm that the motherboard is correctly seated on a non-conductive surface and that there are no bent pins or short circuits. Also, check for any visible damage or debris.
    • If the power supply seems unresponsive when

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