Persistent PC Startup Loop with Yellow DRAM Indicator – Only Access BIOS After Clearing CMOS; Seeking Assistance After Days of Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting My PC’s Power Cycle Problem: Seeking Solutions

After several days of frustrating troubleshooting, I’m reaching out for help with a perplexing issue I’ve encountered with my PC. It has suddenly developed a persistent power cycle problem, specifically appearing to be linked to the yellow DRAM light on the motherboard. Allow me to detail the situation in hopes that someone can provide guidance or solutions.

A few days ago, my computer was functioning perfectly. However, after a routine restart, it failed to progress past the yellow DRAM indicator. The system would switch off and then power back on repeatedly, never reaching the BIOS or showing any display, just caught in this cycle. The only way I’ve managed to access the BIOS is by using the “clear CMOS” button located on the motherboard’s rear panel. Once cleared, I can enter the BIOS, but unfortunately, that’s where the progress halts.

On occasion, when I engage the “boot overdrive” option within the BIOS, I am occasionally granted access to the operating system, but this is inconsistent at best. More often than not, I’m met with a blue screen error, specifically code “inaccessible_boot_device”. This is especially perplexing since I recently performed a fresh installation of Windows. While I was able to navigate the desktop for a brief period, the issue resurfaces with a power cycle each time I shut down.

Here’s a summary of the steps I’ve already taken to resolve this issue:

  • Enabled and disabled XMP profiles
  • Successfully updated the motherboard’s BIOS
  • Formatted all storage drives
  • Removed and reseated the CMOS battery
  • Changed the positions of RAM sticks
  • Loosened the CPU cooler to ensure it’s not too tight
  • Checked the health of my storage drives, which indicates they are functioning correctly
  • Updated all relevant drivers, including those pertaining to the RAID controller

Despite all these efforts, I’m still at a standstill. I would prefer to resolve this issue on my own, as this is not my first experience with PC building. I have been constructing custom builds for over a decade and have never encountered such an elusive problem.

If you have any suggestions or advice on further steps I might take to identify or rectify this issue, I would greatly appreciate your insights. Thank you for your time!

Share this content:

One Comment

  1. Hi,

    It sounds like you’ve already performed comprehensive troubleshooting steps, which is great. The persistent power cycle along with the yellow DRAM indicator suggests potential issues related to RAM, motherboard, or power delivery. Here are a few additional suggestions that might help:

    • Check RAM Compatibility and Test Individually: Since reseating RAM and changing slots didn’t resolve the issue, consider testing each stick individually in the primary RAM slot to identify if a specific module is faulty.
    • Inspect for Physical Damage: Examine RAM slots and RAM sticks for any bent pins, debris, or damage that could cause poor contact.
    • Review Motherboard Power Phases: Ensure all power connectors, including CPU power pins (8-pin and 4-pin if applicable), are securely connected. Faulty or loose power delivery can cause boot issues.
    • Perform a Minimal POST: Disconnect all non-essential peripherals and drives, leaving only CPU, one stick of RAM, and GPU (if not integrated). Attempt a POST to isolate problematic components.
    • Update or Reflash BIOS with a Beta Firmware: Sometimes, unstable BIOS versions can cause hardware detection issues. If available, consider testing a different BIOS version or reverting to an earlier release.
    • Check for Motherboard Faults: The yellow DRAM LED

Leave a Reply to [email protected] Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *