MSI Big Bang XPower - Will Not Post (d4 debug)

tedporter

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Hi,

I have just built a new system with the MSI Big Bang XPower and it will not post (d4 debug).

I have tried OCZ - OCZ3P2133LV6GK and G.Skill F3-12800CL9T-6GBNQ (which is working fine in my MSI Eclipse SLI).

I have tried just using one stick in DIMM_1 (first black slot nearest the CPU).

These are the parts used:

MSI Big Bang XPower Power V1.1
Intel Core i7 950
Corsair AX1200
Zotac GTX460 (which works in another PC)
128GB Crucial RealSSD C300 2.5-inch SATA 6GB/s x 3 (which work in another PC)

I have also tried removing the PCI-E cards but still the D4 debug error.

I have read the other threads from people that have had the same issue and noted that one was cured by going to V1.2 of the BIOS but how can I do that it I cannot get to the BIOS.

Any help would be greatly appreciated ? thank you.
 
This points to a memory initialization problem (a P.O.S.T. step that happens very early in the initialization cycle (before PCI-E/video card initialization -> that is why removing the PCI-E card won't affect the problem at all).

Possible explanations:

- bad/incompatible memory modules -> try different ones (non-OCZ as factory overclocked OCZ modules are famous for these kind of symptoms)
- memory controller problem (CPU defective, not properly seated, pin contact problem between CPU contact pads and socket pins)
- bad memory slots or problem with the board's sub-circuits
- BIOS issue

 
Hi,

Thanks for such a quick response. As I have tried the G.Skill memory as well, then I will look at your other suggestions.

How do I get around a BIOS issue when I cannot access it. Should I send the board back to my supplier?
 
Ted, have you unplugged the pwr supply and used the clear CMOS button?

Make sure the memory module(s) is / are seated well. Is it possible that you removed memory 2 & 3, leaving the 1st stick installed? And, the 1st stick isn't well seated?

Also, consider removing the processor. Check for bent pins and examine the bottom of the cpu for contact indentations if the CPU hasn't been installed in another motherboard.
 
Hi Tim,

I have also just tried some Crucial Ballistix 1333Mhz memory and that posts also with D4.

Yes, I have tried to clear the CMOS with the power unplugged.

The kit is all new - It will take me some time to remove the CPU, as the case is an Antec Lanboy Air with a Nocutua NH-D14 for a CPU cooler. It all fits but its snug  :rolleyes_anim:

Thank you for your help.
 
Hi Tim,

Checked out the CPU - All looks well!

Is there any way I can flash the BIOS without being in the BIOS?

As you say this certainly looks like BIOS / Memory Controller issue.

Thanks,


Ted.
 
Buy or borrow some cheap generic DDR3 memory from somewhere (without all those silly heatspreaders), and you'll know for sure.
 
No way to flash unless the board will boot. I can only suggest that you re-check all connections, assembly items (un-used case stand-off under the mobo shorting something out - things like that) and eliminate any unproven items. It's always helpful when you can raid a friend's PC for parts at a time like this.

If you have to RMA the Big Bang, don't despair. It's a killer board and well worth the effort!
 
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