MSI sent me a Z170A-G45 Gaming since they had no more Z77 models and I can't even reach BIOS. I try to short the pins to reset the BIOS and it lights up a blue LED. If I have to replace this motherboard it is going to be a PITA. There was nothing wrong with my Z97 Gaming 7 but I thought I might try this as an upgrade. What a mistake.
 

What CPU did you go with?
Do the Norm;
Use One Ram Stick
Check to see you have Bent CPU Socket Pins
Use the IGPU to see if it is working in the Bios
But I bet you have already done this.

I know you are using a waterloop, but have you tried slowly removing components to see if something else may be causing it?

Using a i7-6700k. Tried single stick of RAM to no avail. Disconnected all but my system drives. RAM is on their approved list but I forget what it is. I just tried clearing the CMOS again.

The only thing I did not install was a CD/ROM. I didn't think I needed one.

Anyway, I did check for bent pins too. I have to go get something for dinner. I let the geniuses here think about it until I get back. The EVGA Z170 FTW is on sale right now. I might have to finally try an EVGA motherboard.

Did we figure out anything yet?

Zuhl3156
I might have to finally try an EVGA motherboard.

That would be a very good idea.
 

Dukman
Did we figure out anything yet?

We're hoping that different slower RAM might fix it but I was certain that what I bought was on the QVL list. If it don't work after that I am certain I can drain the rear rad, detach the front hose to the video board assembly and snake that motherboard out of there. The biggest decision then is whether I want a Z170 anything or put my Z97 Gaming 7 back in. Z170 FTW was on sale with a $40 instant rebate but the shipping charges associated with buying direct from here is enough to give me another heart attack plus they drag their feet getting it out the door.
 

 

Is it just the angle of your picture, optical illusion or maybe my poor eyesight........but it looks like the whole right side (in the photo) the pins are laid over to the left.