No POST

[Masejoer]

So I had to pull a cpu out of a system a week ago and got a replacement processor for it. I popped it in and I get no POST. I put the old cpu in, still no POST. After putting all the parts in another pc, I have basically got it down to the motherboard being at fault. Using a Port80 card, I get a "FF" code - nothing useful. The cpu and chips heat up but I get nothing on screen. Nothing besides the cpu swap out changed, other than opening the case and moving it around.

The problem: This is a Shuttle SG33G5 with no warranty (they're short). It's impossible to find a replacement motherboard that isn't the cost of a new pc. It appears to be cpu socket related as when I initially install the processor, I can't even get the front button to turn it back off. The cpu stays cool. After placing pressure on the cpu/socket, it gets further but still won't POST. It heats up a little at this point. No pins are bent on the socket. I have tried both onboard and external video. CPU, power supply, ram, videocard all work in another PC. I have tried just the onboard video with the cpu and ram without any luck, outside the case. There are no drives attached.

Is there anything else I should try on the system (besides trying the infamous videocard in the oven trick)?

 

[TGA]

If the system was fully functional before you attempted to upgrade the CPU then I am afraid it sounds like you managed to some how damage the socket during the upgrade. Especially based on the findings of your extended testing.

I would grab a magnifying glass and look the pins over again. Also have a look at the latch and make sure it is functioning as it should be. Something may have broken or bent causing the CPU to not seat properly. And then finally if all else fails to turn up any evidence of damage tipple check to make sure you not having a problem with the heatsink mounting.

As for baking it well if you can't find any physical reason for the problem it sounds like you got nothing to lose. Just be sure to take the proper precautions or you really will just be wasting your time. And even so I doubt you going to have any success.

Out of curiosity what CPU were you using and what were you attempting to upgrade too?

 

[King Icewind]

I dont suppose clearing the CMOS would help...? I had to once for a laptop but that's a little different...

 

[Masejoer]

The replacement wasn't so much for an upgrade as just needing a processor for work so I took it out of the system. Old was an E7200 and I got an E8400 for $80 a few days ago. The CPU latch appears to pull down the processor to an even position. Placing pressure on the socket when booting the system does not help. The stock heatsink/mounting causes the cooler to push down on the CPU anyways so I doubt the latch has anything to do with it. It appears to be under-socket or PCB damage.

It isn't exactly precise science to pull a CPU out and install a new one, especially when the cooler mounts to standoffs on the other side of the motherboard. This is/was a "spare" system that was just hooked up to a television. I don't like the thought of being $200 down in parts though. I'm waiting to hear back on repair/refurbished prices from Shuttle but I doubt it'll be anything short of the cost of a new barebones (which I won't do - I'm all ITX and mATX now). I find it difficult to get all the features packed into the space of a Shuttle G5 chassis though. I got rid of a P2 chassis as it was huge and noisier.

Clear CMOS is long past. Even so, I just pulled the battery to get it out of the way of all the stupid video power jumpers. There isn't much to lose when I can't even get into the BIOS to save any settings.