New Build - I'd be happy if I just could get to the BIOS.

[ATheo]

Hi,

I'm doing a new build. ASROCK B850M and AMD 9600X.
Both were recently introduced. So, I successfully updated the BIOS.
The RAM I purchased is on the ASROCK QVL - a 100% match of the part # to the list.
DDR5-6000 F5-6000J3038F16GX2-FX5

I completed the build, immediately the CPU and RAM LED diagnostic LEDS turn on.
The fans and flashy LEDS work fine, but it makes no attempt to boot.
I can't get to the BIOS. This seems to be a common scenario. I find
it hard to believe AMD and GS are pumping out loads of defective hardware.

My thinking, this memory requires 1.35 volts. I have reset the BIOS, and I
suspect the initial DDR voltage setting is 1.1 volts. And there's
no way the GS RAM will function at this setting. The only option I see
is to buy a single stick of low voltage DDR designed for 1.1 volts,
just so I can get to the BIOS and adjust the RAM voltage.

Do I have any other options at this point? I really hate sitting on my thumbs
waiting for hardware to arrive. My 30-day window won't last forever.

NOTE - I have no expectations that this memory will ever run at DDR5-6000.
I'd be happy if it ever runs at DDR5-5600. I'd be even happier if it had simply
booted at 3200. But, here I am.

Many thanks,
Theo

[emissary42]

After a CMOS clear the system attempts to boot with defaults. The memory has separate profiles for that. The specifications list them as "SPD Speed (Default)", which technically is an up to, DDR5-4800 in this case. So there is no issue with DDR voltage etc. The EXPO, that contains the advertised settings, has to be manually enabled in BIOS.

Please double check, if the modules are installed in the correct memory slots. It should be DIMM A2 and B2 in most cases. The first POST can take a while, so wait at least a couple of minutes. If the POST is fully stuck, continue troubleshooting the modules and DIMM slots individually. Basically figure out, if there is an issue with either module or slot.

An non-functional memory slot can hint at socket damage (bent pins) and sometimes also be the result of a badly seated or overtightened CPU cooler.
If the system does only work with one of the two modules, both in A2 or B2, then the 2nd module might be faulty and a RMA for the memory could be required.

[ATheo]

Hey, thanks for your concise reply. I tried 1 stick at a time in the A2 slot. Tried a different brand of RAM. I finally decided to remove the cooler and the CPU and examine the pins. All of them seem to be oriented correctly, nothing is bent in a different direction or burnt. However, 2 pins reflect light differently. They may be pushed downward. They're too small to be sure. I would never attempt to adjust them, so it looks like it's RMA time. I can't for the life of me figure out why these 2 pins. They are close to an edge. It's not like they are sitting right under where the CPU heat sink is pushing down.

They will probably blame me for CID. Consumer induced damage. Initially I did a quick overview, I didn't look at each and every pin on the board. It may have been sent to me like this, unlikely but possible. ASRock does not sealed their motherboard envelopes anymore.

Thanks again,
Theo