X51 Auto Reboot (Please reconnect PCI-e power cables)

Question

Hi,

I have had this problem for ages now and I made a post a while back about the auto rebooting (I just stopped using the pc but want to use it again), but now I have a new problem as well. Basically, my X51 just randomly reboots itself while doing anything. I should point out that these reboots are completely random. Could happen within 1 min of starting up, or about 6 hours later. When it reboots, 1 of 3 different things happens;

Just starts back up again normally with no error messages at all.
Starts up again as if no graphics card is connected.
Has a black screen that says, "Please power down and reconnect the PCI-e power cables". This one is most common. If this happens, i usually just tap the side of the case while I power it on and half of the time it turns on.

Now im pretty sure that the graphics card cables are firmly plugged in with the cables tucked away as to not interfere with anything at all. I have no idea what the problem could be here but it is getting extremely annoying. Please help me fix this!

The graphics card is a GTX 670.

http://en.community.dell.com/owners-club/alienware/f/3746/t/19529463.aspx is my old post.

DannyyP · Answer

I should also point out if I knock the table with my knee, it usually auto reboots, which makes me think its loose cabling.

Alienware-Naomi · Answer

Hi! Please follow these steps and let me know the results:  Make sure you have the latest BIOS A14. Run an ePSA diagnostic to check for hardware issues. Re-seat the video card.

DannyyP · Answer

When I try to install the bios, i get an error instantly saying, 'no support this board'. I also have 0 errors in the ePSA test.

Tesla1856 · Answer

I should also point out if I knock the table with my knee, it usually auto reboots, which makes me think its loose cabling.

But this sounds like lose connection.

Check card for bad/cold solder joints on power connector, bad pins on cable, bad crimp, pinched cables, and finally ... bad DC-DC Converter power board. Could even be a weak AC-Adapter.

Tesla1856 · Answer

Has a black screen that says, 'Please power down and reconnect the PCI-e power cables'. This one is most common. If this happens, i usually just tap the side of the case while I power it on and half of the time it turns on. Now im pretty sure that the graphics card cables are firmly plugged in with the cables tucked away as to not interfere with anything at all. I have no idea what the problem could be here but it is getting extremely annoying. Please help me fix this! The graphics card is a GTX 670. First idea is that large card (for this machine) is running out of power at max draw.

DannyyP · Answer

Yeh i've checked everything and can not find the problem. Can anyone direct me where to go to return the computer? Either for a refund or a new one. I've had it for 8 months. Also do you think its possible to ask to keep the harddrive when i return it? Or they can send it back to me?

Alienware-Naomi · Answer

You can only request a refund or exchange within the first 30 days. If you wan't to continue troubleshooting to identify the problem we can help you out and if a replacement is necessary, it will be covered if system is in warranty. From the symptoms you've described here and on your previous thread, the problem seems to be related to the video card.

Here are some more troubleshooting steps you can try:

Try to do the BIOS update again. Choose Run as an Administrator.
Clean installation of the video drivers as explained here (use the driver version from the Dell Support website).
Run an AlienAutopsy gaming test. Monitor and let us know the CPU and GPU temperatures during the test.
Check if you're still getting BSOD. Use Blue Screen View to pull up the error code.

If you've already completed all these steps and the issue persists, send me a private message with your Service Tag, contact information and link to this thread so I can help you further.

AcaelusKylar · Answer

I am have had and am having the exact same issue. Was fine for first 30days then boom -all the above- dell sent engi out after copious hours of tech support- fixed issues for it to happen again 6 months later, now again, (8 months later) same issue. Disgusting that you can't get a refund after 30 days, makes you lose all faith in the company. I would love to know what causes this issue so I can stop this happening.

Milena M458 · Answer

I’m sorry to hear you are having problems with your system, first thing you can do is try the troubleshoot steps on this article, if it’s still doesn't work I will recommend you to contact the technical support site were warranty is setup so they can help you.

Locked Topics – Alienware General

X51 Auto Reboot (Please reconnect PCI-e power cables)

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