can you test a motherboard? - Overclock.net

jacobdrw · 08-09-07

is there any way to test a motherboard that you think might be going out? I have been having a lot of problems like it not recognizing my hard drives, but then it will after I reset it... or it being very unstable?

PhillyOverclocker · 08-09-07

There's no easy way to spot or rule out a bad motherboard if that's what you are asking.
It would be a hell of a lot easier to begin ruling out things like your hard drives, cables, BIOS settings, drivers, or memory. Have you done all that?
Edit: Right after posting I remembered that a bad power supply gave me those symptoms too. Especially with the HDs.

jacobdrw · 08-09-07

that is the two things I am down to... psu or motherboard now which one is it? the only reason I am not leaning towards the psu is that when I really push my computer like playing a very demanding game it is usually fine, but is much more unstable when start up or just looking on the internet?

**dr4gon** · 08-09-07

you think your power supply is bad under load or just bad period?

You could try jumping it to test it. It's very easy and safe, use a paper clip.

http://www.jonnyguru.com/atx

As for the motherboard, well it's either one right? lol...

Once it's "jumped" plug in all your accessories including the hard drives and listen to them boot.

jacobdrw · 08-09-07

no that is what I am saying it is fine under load, just freezes up at weird times

jacobdrw · 08-09-07

any one else have any suggestions, or should I just replace my motherboard and if that does not work move on to my psu?

**The Duke** · 08-10-07

Check your PS for stable voltage on the 3.3v, 5v and 12v rails. Do so when the system has been load tested for at least a 30-60 minutes. Loading up the system builds heat and stresses the PS and that is when it will likley fail the voltage tests... if its going to that is! Do keep the case all closed up and extend a few SATA power cables and a few extra 4 pin moldex cable to test the voltages by either stuffing them out a spare case PCI slot/port or from under the edge of a side panel.
The pin outs for testing are on the mid 30 page area in the link. ATX 2.2

The issues with recognizing the HDDs...
1. At BOOT it could be a weak MB/CMOS battery.
2. Data cable issues, defective or excessive pressure in on zip ties with SATA cables.
3. The drive is simply failing, do test it when your good to go with #1&2.

PhillyOverclocker · 08-10-07

Do you have the controller module hooked up to your ps? If so, try running it without to see if you get more stable. Also, when testing each rail, be sure to leave the tester on and watch it for a good while. I had a ps do unexplainable dips in voltage on the 5v rails, but only every minute or so.
Good luck.