No post, most likely because CPU not supported by shipped BIOS version

BlastHardCheese · 04 Feb 2014

Hello, thank you for taking the time to read my post.

I am having a small problem with my new build not POSTing. I have done a lot of things to try and resolve this. I have reseated RAM, unplugged and tested non-essential components, cleared the CMOS RAM, but nothing has worked. While researching the problem, I found that the problem might be that my CPU isnt supported by my motherboard BIOS version. I made sure that my CPU was on my motherboards support list before I bought them, but I didn't think it owuld be a BIOS issue.

So, I was wondering, is there any way to tell what BIOS version my motherboard shipped with?
If it turns out that it this is the issue, Can I flash the BIOS without booting? If not do I need to buy another processor that is compatible and flash the BIOS with that?

My system specs are;

AMD FX-8320 Vishera FD8320FRW8KHK
MSI 760GA-P43 (FX)
Samsung DDR3 4GB PC3-10600U 1333MHz
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 460 SE
Seagate Desktop HDD ST1000DM003
Corsair CX600M
[No disc drive]

Thank you for reading my post and thank you in advance for any advice you give.

stormy13 · 04 Feb 2014

is there any way to tell what BIOS version my motherboard shipped with?

Short of contacting MSI with the serial number, no.

Can I flash the BIOS without booting?

No it needs to be able to boot in order to flash.

If not do I need to buy another processor that is compatible and flash the BIOS with that?

That or take it in to a shop and get them to do it for you.

P.S. For what it's worth, you would be far better served to return that board and get one that was actually designed to run with Bulldozer/Vishera CPU's. The one you currently have was never made for the FX series, and support was added by way of the bios and a socket change. Even the chipset itself (760G) is old, and came out well before the FX series. For best performance and compatibility, you would be better off with a 970 or 990 based motherboard that was actually made for the FX CPU's.

AddRAM · 05 Feb 2014

Didn`t you read the specs before you placed your order ?

madcratebuilder · 05 Feb 2014

Can I flash the BIOS without booting? If not do I need to buy another processor that is compatible and flash the BIOS with that?

You must first boot up before you can flash the bios.

I think the best solution is the sell the motherboard and buy a new more compatible board, like a 990fx series.

Solarstarshines · 05 Feb 2014

madcratebuilder said:

Can I flash the BIOS without booting? If not do I need to buy another processor that is compatible and flash the BIOS with that?

You must first boot up before you can flash the bios.

I think the best solution is the sell the motherboard and buy a new more compatible board, like a 990fx series.

Yup i suggest this as well i don't understand why companies use this approach

it's a big headache all around you will best be served with a 990fx period why bother going to the 970 board just get the one that was made for it budget or not you should always shoot for the best combination of components