Cannot restart computer when PCIe x1 adapter is installed

[Frg-GiGa]

Hello Community,

in recent times I bought some new HP ProDesk 400 computers.

On two of them I must install a second ethernt adapter so I bought two PCIe x1 add-on cards based on Realtek chipset. Once installed, Windows 10  recognises the adapter and I can use it without problems.

By the way when I restart or turn off the computer it seems to halt, the monitor goes black, but the system "freezes": the power button led stays on and the fan keeps running. I have no choice but to force the shutdown by pressing the power button for a long time (or by removing AC power).

I updated the BIOS to the latest version and so I did for all the software components (OS, HP drivers, ethernet card drivers) but the problem remains the same.

If I remove the PCIe adapter the computer works normally. I think this is not an issue with the operating system or the drivers. It seems that the presence of the PCIe x1 adapter is causing the problem.

If I uncheck the option "PCI Expres x1 Slot 1" in the advanced section of BIOS configuration then the computer works normally, but the second adapter is not available for the OS.

Note that the same add-on card works normally when installed on a non-HP computer.

May this be a BIOS issue? Did anyone install a second ethernet adapter on PCIe X1 slot without problems?

Thank you in advance,

Giacomo

[Grzwacz]

Hi,

I'll take a shot at your problem since no one else has has replied.

Two identical Realtek network adapters installed in two identical HP PCs. You updated the BIOS to the latest version, all drivers and Windows' system files are up to date. Both PCs don't work as expected when you install this adapter.

You installed the problematic adapter in a different PC with success. I would say the adapter works.

It would appear the HP PCs don't like the adapter or there is a problem with the x1 slot on both PCs. I don't know why. This should not be happening.

Can you try a different adapter in both PCs, any type of x1 add-in card to see if it works correctly?

Have you tried this adapter in other HP ProDesk 400 computers you purchased to verify it is an isolated problem or a systemic problem on all motherboards? 

Regards

[Frg-GiGa · Accepted solution]

Hi Grzwacz, and thank you for your reply.

I went to your same conclusion and decided to buy new adapters.

Yesterday I received 2 new Intel I210-T1 (HP P/N E0X95AA) and I tried to mount them on both PCs.

With the Intel adapters the problem was solved!

Anyway, I can confirm that the old adapters are working regularry on other non-HP computers. They operate even on HP ProDesk 400, but they inhibit computer halt / restart... I suppose it is a BIOS-related issue.

By the way, I do not have enough time for further analisys  so I will go with the Intel adapters and close the case for the  moment.

Thanks again for your interest.

Best regards