Server Problem

[Hans5849]

This is my problem with setting up my new server:

I have tried to load windows server 2008, Windows XP, and run a Ubuntu live CD on this system all with the same result.

Once the OS tries to go into a higher level of operation the system shuts off and won't turn on without the BIOS being cleared. For 2008 it is after the setup is initializing screen, XP it is when it is installing the OS, for ubuntu it is after the select language/choose to boot into ubuntu.

I have tested the PSU with a multimeter which came out fine. (According to the BIOS the 3.3 line is at 3.28, all the others are greater than their voltages).

I have removed one stick of ram and even installed them in different slots. I've tried plugging different hard drives in, I've tried plugging no hard drives in.

This is the second motherboard that I have received that has had this problem, I am out of ideas for troubleshooting.

CPU: Intel E7300
MOBO: ASUS P5KPL-CM
RAM: Corsair CM2x1024-6400C4
PSU: Thermaltake Toughpower Cable Management 700Watt W0106RU
Video: Onboard

 

[RebateMonger]

Hmmm...
I just built a new XP computer with that same motherboard last night. No problems with that one, with a single 2 GB Crucial DDR2 800 memory module and an NVidia 8600 GT video card.

Obviously it's a hardware problem. It's probably NOT the motherboard, since you had the same problem with two of them. I start with the basics:

Double-check that all power and data cables are fully connected. A slightly-lose power cable can cause strange problems.
I'd use the new data cables that came with the MB.
Run a several-hour-long memory diagnostics (Memtest 86+).
Run a full hard drive diagnostics using the disk maker's diagnostics program.

Edit:
Forgot to mention it. Double-check that the the Heatsink/Fan is firmly clamped to the CPU. A wobbly connection will definitely cause problems. You can idle the motherboard for a few minutes and check the CPU temperature rise from the BIOS.

 

[Hans5849]

You gave me an idea. I'm going to hook the PSU from my other computer up and see what happens. I've also got a backup video card around here somewhere...

I've checked the heatsink, at first one of the connections was loose but I fixed it. (that was yesterday)

 

[Hans5849]

PSU, thanks. I'll post pictures up of how I connected the PSU to the system