X58A-UDR3R - Rev 2.0 first boot problem

[lorenzo]

Hi Everyone,
I'm building a new computer with the following configuration:

1 ) MB X58A-UDR3R - Rev 2.0
2 ) Core i7 950
3 ) 24 GB RAM (6x4GB Corsair 1333MHZ)
4 ) ATI HD4870 Video card
5 ) Thermaltake Frio Cooler
6 ) Cooler Master Case CM-690
7 ) Cooler Master 550W Power Supply
8 ) 2x 500 GB Seagate SATA 2 drives

When I removed the motherboard from the box, there was a note from the store where I bought the MB about a bended pin on the MB, but the same note confirmed that the MB posted and loaded OS in a store test. As the note said the MB posted ok, I moved on and proceed with the hardware mounting.

I mounted all these components and when I powered up the computer, the PSU started, the CPU fan started, too and the computer rebooted several times every 4 or 5 seconds with nothing on the screen. I turned off the computer and when I tried again, my UPS alarm sounded because it detected an overload in the power. I removed the PSU and did some tests (shortening the green and black wires) and trying to power up and old hard drive but it seems the PSU is dead.

I disassembled all the parts and looked for the bended pin and I found one pin that could be in contact with the next pin. Using a very small screw driver, I moved the pin a little bit, just for sure, and correct the (possible) problem. I also checked the MB for burned or damaged components but I didn't find anything.

Before doing new tests, I have a few questions...

1) I'm planning to buy a new PSU and perform a "bench test" in the MB with only one memory and a graphic card outside the case. Is there any risk of burning a second PSU?

2) I believe the (possible) bended pin may cause the several reboots, but it's unlike the problematic pin may burned the PSU. Am I correct?

3) I know I'm using a lot of RAM. My configuration may caused an overload in the PSU? Checking the traditional PSU estimators on the web, the necessary load for my system is near 440W and my PSU had 550W.

4) I double checked all the connections before turning on the PSU for the first time, but I'm also considering that a short-circuit may damaged the PSU. I checked the MB looking for any apparent burned component, but I didn't see any. How often a short-circuit can damage the PSU? And about the other components (MB, CPU, Memory etc)?

Best regards,
Lorenzo

[Fatman]

Take the board back to the store with the note you found and demand a new board!!!!!!!!!!!! That note should have sent some alarm bells ringing as soon as you opened the box.

Your cpu should still be fine, but you will need a much stronger PSU IMO. Go with an 850watt or better. That could be a issue with the restarts.

When you take the board back to the store DON'T tell them you tried to fix the bent pin yourself otherwise they will blame you!! ;-)

[Dark Mantis]

I would agree with Fatman and march back down to the store and drag the assistant that sold me the damaged board.....no, maybe that is going a bit over the top but you get my drift! I would definitely want the board replaced and the power supply as well with an upgraded model for my troubles. 750W at least and single 12V rail.

[lorenzo]

Thank you Fatman and Dark Mantis!

Unfortunately I cannot return the motherboard as I bought all the parts in US in a recent trip and I live in Brazil. I knew this procedure had some risks, but the prices in Brazil are THREE TIMES the price in US and, even if I have to buy one or other component again, the risk is still worthwhile!

I'll shop today for a bigger power supply and I'll cross my fingers! Do you have any other advice to me?

Best regards and thank you again,
Lorenzo

[Dark Mantis]

If you would like to post a couple of good clear macro photos of the socket here before connecting it all up again we can check it out for you and hopefully avoid another expensive mistake.

PSU wise I would recommend a Corsair or Seasonic or something like that  of good quality and with a single 12V rail as I said earlier.