Usage Issues FAQ

1. Check the status of the power button LED after powering on: Does the power button light stay on? Are there any other LEDs lit or is the fan running?  If the light does not stay on, the internal power supply hardware of the device is most likely damaged.

2. After reconnecting the power and restarting, does the GEEKOM logo appear during boot? If the screen goes black right after showing the logo, refer to this article:

   https://help.geekompc.com/hc/en-us/articles/14600717878415-Power-on-with-no-display

3. If the monitor shows no response, make sure the power adapter is connected properly. Try using another adapter of the same specification to rule out an adapter fault. Also try plugging into a different power outlet to rule out outlet issues.

   Refer to this article:

   https://help.geekompc.com/hc/en-us/articles/14589907379471-Power-off-with-no-display

1. Hardware Check

• Remove the M.2 SSD: Unscrew the mounting screw, take out the drive, then firmly reinstall it and check that it is fully seated in the slot.

• While the cover is off, remove and reinsert the RAM modules as well.

  Reference: RAM & SSD & HDD Upgrade Tutorial – GEEKOM Help Center

2. Force Restart

3. Reset BIOS

4. Reinstall Windows

• Download the official Windows 11 package here: windows11
• Step-by-step guide: https://service.geekompc.com/faq/how-to-install-windows-system/

It can be restored by disassembling and reassembling the bottom case.

If the system automatically enters the BIOS interface on startup,in the vast majority of cases,  it typically indicates that the SSD was not detected or that no operating system is present on the SSD.

Solution:

Check the SSD option in the BIOS menu to see if an installed SSD is displayed.

1. If an SSD is already installed but the system on it cannot be accessed, it indicates that the operating system is corrupted and needs to be reinstalled. You can download the official compatible system image from our support page (please be sure to select the corresponding model): https://service.geekompc.com

   Operating System Installation Tutorial. Please refer to:https://service.geekompc.com/faq/how-to-install-windows-system/

   SSD Installed (SSD name and specifications are displayed)
   System bootloader present in the BOOT Directory	No System Bootloader in BOOT Directory

2. If it shows that no SSD is installed, you can first try to reseat the SSD: power off the device and disconnect the power cable, carefully remove the M.2 SSD and reinsert it. You can refer to this practical video guide: https://support.geekompc.com/uploads/Technical-Support/Video/How-to-install-SSD-and-DDR.mp4

    

   If the SSD is still not recognized, it indicates that the SSD is damaged and needs to be replaced. It is recommended to contact here: GEEKOM Customer Service

   Not installed or SSD not recognized (SSD option shows "Empty").

You can also try the following troubleshooting method:

1. Power off and reset
   Disconnect all peripherals (except USB drives, hard disks, and the monitor) and the power cable. Press and hold the power button for 15–20 seconds to discharge static electricity, then reconnect the power and turn on the device.
    
2. Check the power supply and connections
   Make sure the power adapter is working properly, and try using another power adapter of the same specification. Check whether the power cable and wall outlet are securely connected.
    
3. Check for rebooting in BIOS
   Repeatedly press Del / ESC during startup to enter BIOS. If the device keeps rebooting even in the BIOS, it is most likely a hardware issue.
    
4. Disable the Fast Boot option in the BIOS.

• Entering the BIOS Menu: During startup or restart, repeatedly press the Delete or Del key to enter the BIOS menu. On some models, pressing the Esc key also works.

• Disabling Fast Boot: Use the keyboard arrow keys to navigate to the BOOT tab, select the Fast Boot option, change it to Disable, and then press F4 to save the changes. The process is illustrated below:

   

  loading

  Disabling Fast Boot in BIOS
  Duration: 36s | Resolution: 1920×1080

  5.  Restore factory settings / Reinstall the system

          Repeatedly press F7 during startup to enter the boot menu. You can then reset the PC using the system recovery function, or create an installation drive on another computer to reinstall the system.

1. Disable Secure Boot in BIOS 

1. Press the ESC/DELETE key repeatedly during startup to access the BIOS interface.
2. Find and turn off the Secure Boot option.
3. Save the settings and restart your PC, then try booting into Windows again.

2. Enter Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) for Reset

1. Power on your PC. When the brand logo appears, press and hold the power button until the device shuts down completely.
2. Repeat this forced shutdown operation 3 times.
3. Start the PC for the 4th time; Windows will automatically launch the recovery environment (WinRE).
4. Inside WinRE: Go to Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
5. Select Keep my files, then follow the on-screen instructions to finish the reset.

3. Reset CMOS

1. Refer to the photo provided: locate the wired CMOS connector on the motherboard.
2. Unplug the connector, wait for 5–10 minutes.
3. Plug the connector back in to restore the default BIOS settings.

4. Final Solution

We're sorry to hear that issue.

Let’s troubleshoot step by step, from most to least likely.

1. Check for Overheating (Most Common)
Thermal shutdowns happen quickly if airflow is blocked or the fan fails.

Monitor temps: Download HWMonitor or Core Temp. Run it and watch the CPU temperature. Idle should be ~40–55°C; under load, shutdown usually occurs around 90–100°C.

Feel the case: When it freezes/shuts down, is the bottom or back extremely hot?

Check fan: Place your hand near the rear vent. Can you feel warm air moving? If no airflow, the fan may be dead or clogged with dust.

Fix: Use compressed air to clean vents. Ensure the mini PC has 2–3 inches of clear space on all sides. Do not place it in a closed cabinet or on carpet.

2. Rule Out Power Supply Issues
The pc uses an external power brick. If the brick is failing or the connection is loose, the PC will randomly shut off without warning.

Check the connection: Ensure the barrel plug is fully seated into the mini PC (these can loosen over time).

Try another outlet – preferably directly into a wall, not a power strip.

Reseat the power brick’s AC cord (both ends).

If possible, test with a higher-wattage GaN charger (Geekom often supports USB-C PD, but check your manual first – the pc might require 19V barrel jack only).

3. Update BIOS & Chipset Drivers
Geekom is known for shipping units with early, buggy BIOS versions that cause instability.

Go to Geekom’s support page for the pc.

Download and install the latest BIOS (follow their instructions carefully – do not interrupt the update).

Also download the AMD Chipset Drivers (not just GPU drivers).

4. Test RAM (Common with these mini PCs)
Faulty RAM causes freezing, blue screens, or sudden power-offs.

Run Windows Memory Diagnostic: Type “Windows Memory Diagnostic” in Start, select “Restart now and check for problems”.

Or use MemTest86 on a USB drive (more thorough).

If you’re comfortable: Open the bottom panel, reseat the SODIMM modules (take them out, clean contacts with eraser, reinsert firmly).

Try running with one stick at a time if you have two.

5. Disable Fast Startup & Sleep States
Modern standby (S0ix) sometimes doesn’t play well with AMD mini PCs.

Disable Fast Startup: Control Panel → Power Options → Choose what the power buttons do → Uncheck “Turn on fast startup”.

Change power plan to High Performance.

Disable USB selective suspend in the same power options.

If your Mini PC crashes, freezes, or restarts unexpectedly, use this checklist to find the cause.

1. Note when it happens
- Only under load (games, video export)? → likely thermal or power related.
- Randomly, even at idle? → likely memory, driver, or system file related.

2. Check thermals
- Make sure the vents are not blocked and the fan spins.
- If the device feels very hot, clean the vents with compressed air and re-test.

3. Update drivers and BIOS
- Install the latest chipset and graphics drivers from our download page.
 

4. Test the memory
- Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic (search "mdsched" in the Start menu) and let it complete.
- Reseat the modules or test one module at a time.

5. Check Windows system files
- Open Command Prompt as administrator and run: sfc /scannow

6. Still crashing?
Contact support with your order number, serial number, and (if possible) the error code shown on screen or found in Event Viewer > Windows Logs > System around the time of the crash.

There are several solutions to wirelessly connect your GEEKOM computer to a display, depending on the technologies supported by your computer:
1. Wireless displays supporting Miracast or Wi‑Fi Direct: Some portable displays can connect directly to the computer via Wi‑Fi, just like a regular monitor but wirelessly.
2. Wireless HDMI adapter: A common solution is to use a Miracast or wireless HDMI transmitter plugged into a regular monitor, allowing the computer to transmit the screen via Wi‑Fi.
 

For reference:  Microsoft support 

1. Cable Requirements:

• The USB‑C port on the signal output side must support DP Alt Mode.
• HDMI cable should match the appropriate version (HDMI 2.0 / 2.1) to support high resolution and refresh rate.
• DisplayPort cable should support DP 1.4 / 2.0 or higher.

2. Connection:

   Connect the USB‑C end to your device, and plug the other end into the HDMI or DisplayPort port on your monitor.

   Turn on your monitor and select the correct input source (HDMI or DisplayPort).

   Windows will detect the display automatically, or you can adjust the resolution and refresh rate in Settings > System > Display.

The A9 Max is equipped with two types of display interfaces: HDMI 2.1 FRL and USB4 (DP 2.1 UHBR20). DP 2.1 supports up to 8K@60Hz. Taking backward compatibility and cross-device compatibility of electronic products into consideration, it is highly likely that this 6K monitor will work.

You can find information for the corresponding product by model on our technical support page. Click download on the page to find the product's drivers/BIOS/EC/system files: GEEKOM SERVICE.

Connect via wired network, or access the GEEKOM technical support website from another computer to download and install the WiFi driver.
GEEKOM SERVICE
You can also download the latest driver from the manufacturer's official website according to the model of the wireless network card. According to the specific parameters of computer A8 (refer to https://service.geekompc.com/a8/), the network card model is M.2 Wi-Fi 6E BT5.2 AW-EB600NF. You can search and download it directly on Google.

Power off the device and disconnect the power cable. Open the computer case and locate the small white button with a red cable on the motherboard. Carefully unplug the red cable and let it sit for a few minutes, then reinsert it.
For more operational details, refer to the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IIZTAvzyPHw

Yes, the ERP function in BIOS controls the power supply settings of USB interfaces. ERP is disabled by default in BIOS, which means USB ports will still supply power after shutdown. You can change the setting to Enabled for better power saving.

After enabling the ERP function, it takes a few seconds for all interfaces to completely power off when the system is shut down. After enabling ERP, the USB4 interface will not lose power, only the USB-A interface is affected.

If the corresponding setting option is not found, it is recommended to download and update the BIOS from the official website first.   GEEKOM SERVICE.

1. Disconnect the power supply and shut down the device completely.

2. If the battery is removable, remove it.

   Open the computer case and locate the small white button with a red cable on the motherboard. Carefully unplug the red cable for a few minutes, then plug it back in.

   For more details, refer to the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IIZTAvzyPHw

    

3. Press the power button 6 to 10 times. Leave the device idle for 10 to 15 minutes.
4. Reinstall the battery, reconnect the power supply, then power on the device. Check if the problem is resolved.

1.  First update the BIOS version, then unlock it using the tool.   Geekom

If the BIOS update still fails after restoration, please do not perform any further operations and continue using the device normally.

1. UMA buffer ≠ Total memory occupied by integrated graphics
What you set in BIOS: UMA Frame Buffer Size = 512MB is only the minimum video memory permanently allocated to the integrated graphics. However, AMD Ryzen series (R7-8845HS / R9-8945HS) uses a dynamic video memory allocation mechanism
The system will: reserve 512MB permanently for integrated graphics, then dynamically borrow about 3.5GB as "flexible video memory" for the integrated graphics, resulting in a total display of 4GB occupied by integrated graphics.
This is the default, normal, and necessary behavior of the AMD platform.

2. Can it be changed to only occupy 512MB?
No. AMD Ryzen series must occupy about 4GB to properly run video decoding, multi-monitor output, 3D acceleration, and desktop rendering.
You cannot modify this dynamic allocation, and there is no option to disable it in BIOS.

Completely power off the device and unplug the power cable, open the bottom cover (warranty remains valid), locate the RAM/SSD slot, and reseat them. You can refer to the following article to find where the RAM and SSD are located.

https://help.geekompc.com/hc/en-us/articles/10985617802127-RAM-SSD-HDD-Upgrade-Tutorial

Modern CPUs have no hard capacity limit on SSDs, and SSDs/HDDs with capacities of 10TB, 20TB, or even larger can be normally recognized and used. However, please note whether the machine's slots match the hard drive type. You can refer to the machine's parameter documentation:

Without verified test data, we cannot guarantee full compatibility with any high-capacity SSD. Minor hardware compatibility issues exist across consumer electronics. 

We can only state high likelihood of compatibility: the hardware design does not impose a maximum capacity limit for SSD slots, and capacity-related incompatibility faults are extremely rare.

Q: I want to upgrade with a second 32GB memory stick. They selected the same CRUCIAL memory model as the original factory RAM, but the memory module collides with capacitors on the motherboard during installation. Swapping the two memory sticks does not resolve the collision issue.

A: The obstruction is not a capacitor, but the motherboard coin cell battery. Remove the SSD mounted above the battery first, peel off the double-sided adhesive securing the battery, and reattach the battery to an alternate position that avoids blocking the memory slot.

1. Thermal silicone pad specifications for the two SSD slots:

• Thermal silicone sheet: 35×18×1.2mm, thermal conductivity 3W/m·K, compression rate >50%, material FSL149BS
• Thermal silicone sheet: 52.5×18.5×1.0mm, thermal conductivity 3W/m·K, compression rate >50%, material FSL149BS

2. Memory modules do not require thermal pads. Heat output varies across memory brands and models; RAM can operate reliably at elevated temperatures without extra thermal interface material. Additionally, the memory side of the board does not contact the metal chassis, so added thermal pads would have no heat dissipation path.

The pc does not include built-in speaker hardware, so it cannot have speaker-related hardware failures. 

Audio should be played through external devices (speakers, monitor speakers). If there is an issue with the sound, the problem is most likely related to software settings. 

Possible causes: 

1. Loose connection or cable/port issues 

- Unplug and firmly reconnect the cables of your speaker device. - For Bluetooth speakers: re-pair the device (Settings Bluetooth Remove device Add again). 

2. System volume settings or switched default output device - Windows sometimes automatically switches the default playback device (for example, it does not switch back to speakers after headphones are unplugged). 

- An application in the Volume Mixer is muted, or the overall volume is turned down. 

- Troubleshooting: Right-click the volume icon Sound settings Output device, and make sure your external speaker is selected (not internal speakers or HDMI). 

3. Audio driver or service issues Conflicts may occur after Windows updates, or there may be bugs in Realtek or other audio drivers. 

- Update your graphics driver using the Driver Install Assistant provided on AMD’s official website. Graphics drivers include audio drivers, which can effectively reset the audio settings. 

- https://www.amd.com/en/support/download/drivers.html

Q: When the device enters low-power modes (auto idle sleep / manual sleep), active speakers connected to the 3.5mm audio jack emit random "pop" noises of varying loudness. The popping persists even when the system is muted, and the customer suspects internal electrical hardware failure.

Completed verification tests:

1. The active speaker set is several years old and operates without popping on at least two desktop PCs and an HP laptop during sleep.
2. Passive headphones plugged into the 3.5mm jack also produce faint popping noises during sleep, quieter than the speaker output.
3. Audio driver reinstallation does not resolve the fault.
4. Audio output functions perfectly under normal operating conditions; popping only occurs randomly during sleep low-power states.

A: The popping noise during sleep is not a software fault, but a typical electrical interference phenomenon. Follow these troubleshooting steps sequentially:

1. Poor contact between audio jack and cable 

   Inspect if the audio cable is fully seated; check for dust or oxidation on the 3.5mm plug and host audio port. Clean plugs and ports with a cotton swab lightly dampened with rubbing alcohol, or test a higher-quality replacement audio cable if available.

2. Power grounding and supply noise interference (most common cause) 

    Separate power sources: Do not plug the mini PC and speakers into the same power strip; connect them to separate wall outlets to reduce crosstalk from current fluctuations. 

    Cable routing: Route audio signal cables separately from power cords, avoid tight contact or coiling between them; position speakers away from electromagnetic interference sources such as routers and phone chargers.

Yes, the front audio jack marked with the headphone icon also supports microphone input. It is a combo audio jack that supports both headphones and microphones.

This is a blogger’s tutorial for replacing antennas on A8 network adapters. Whether purchasing or installing a wireless card antenna, this guide can be referenced.

 The original antenna is not mandatory; Wi-Fi and Bluetooth signal performance will remain largely unaffected as long as the antenna clip fastens securely to the network card, even with different adapter models.

https://www.cnx-software.com/2024/06/10/how-to-repair-replace-a-wifi-antenna-in-a-mini-pc/

Contact with the metal frame is acceptable and even beneficial for signal transmission.

This is almost always a compatibility issue; the RTL8852BE adapter has poor Linux driver support. Attempt updating the Linux wireless driver first. If the issue persists, replace the adapter with a Linux-compatible model such as the Intel AX210.

This issue is most likely caused by loose network card antenna connectors inside the device due to vibration during shipping, resulting in extremely weak Wi-Fi and Bluetooth signals. It can be resolved by opening the chassis and reattaching the antenna cables. For reference:

https://help.geekompc.com/hc/en-us/articles/14695362440719-WIFI-Issue

Under warranty
If the original adapter stopped working under normal use within the warranty period, contact support with:
1. Your order number and the PC's serial number (SN on the bottom label).
2. If faulty, a short description of the symptoms.
We will ship a replacement free of charge after verification.

Out of warranty or lost
The adapter can be purchased independently on Amazon in accordance with its original specifications.

Warning: never power your Mini PC with an adapter whose voltage differs from the original (check the label, e.g. 19V ⎓ 6.5A).

GEEKOM Customer Service

No BIOS option modifications are required for eGPU connection; the eGPU can be plugged in and used directly. Standard mini PC eGPU connection workflow:

1. Hardware connection: Install the graphics card properly into the eGPU dock and power the dock with its dedicated power supply. Use a high-quality USB4 or Thunderbolt 4 cable supporting 40Gbps data transfer to link the mini PC and dock. Ordinary phone charging cables cannot substitute, as cable quality directly impacts stability.
2. Power supply verification: Ensure the mini PC receives sufficient power when paired with an eGPU. Some eGPU docks support reverse power delivery to the mini PC via the same USB4 cable, which can eliminate the need for a separate mini PC power cord.
3. After completing hardware connections, power on the mini PC and proceed with software configuration. System detection: Windows will automatically detect new hardware after boot. Open Device Manager and navigate to Display Adapters to confirm the external graphics card model is listed.

Install graphics drivers: 

NVIDIA GPUs: Download the official standard Game Ready or Studio driver matching your model from NVIDIA’s website. Select Clean Installation during setup to prevent conflicts from leftover old driver files. 

AMD GPUs: Download the latest Adrenalin driver from AMD’s official website.

4. Graphics preference configuration: After driver installation, specify applications to utilize the high-performance GPU via system settings. Navigate to Windows Settings > System > Display > Graphics. Add games or professional software to the list and set their Graphics Preference to High Performance to force the apps to use the external GPU.

The most prevalent issue with mini PCs and eGPU docks is failure to detect the external graphics card, usually stemming from port incompatibility, faulty cables, or the eGPU dock itself. If detection fails, the unit is likely incompatible with that specific eGPU model.

Hot-plug note: While USB4 theoretically supports hot-swapping, for stable detection on Windows during initial setup or environment changes, power on the eGPU dock first before booting the mini PC. Hot-swapping can be attempted after the first successful connection.
 

You can download and install the PC manager from this website:
https://www.geekompc.com/pcmanager/

Read speeds roughly double the original single-drive performance, while write speeds remain unchanged. Exact performance figures depend on the individual hard drive models used in the RAID array.

1. First confirm if it is already enabled

Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager, switch to Performance → CPU, and check the bottom right corner: Virtualization: Enabled / Disabled

• Displayed as "Disabled" → Must enter BIOS to enable SVM
• Displayed as "Enabled" → Already enabled, no further action needed

2. Enable SVM Mode

Scroll down to find SVM Mode (may also be called AMD-V), press Enter → select Enabled. Press F4 → select Yes to save and exit,

The computer will restart automatically.

3. Enable at Windows system level

Press Win+R on the keyboard → enter optionalfeatures → press Enter

Check: Virtual Machine Platform, click OK → restart the computer

1. Your order details including the order number;
2. A detailed description of the malfunction. If possible, please send videos or pictures that can show the issue;
3. The device serial number (SN), which can be found on the bottom of the mini PC or the product box.

There is an "Unsubscribe" option at the bottom of every subscription email, allowing customers to unsubscribe by clicking it directly.

Once you enter the site, scroll to the bottom of the page, and you will find the newsletter subscription input box.

Our business hours: (GMT+08:00) 9:00-18:00(Mon-Fri)

If your question is urgent, you can chat on our website or call us now.
https://www.geekompc.com/contact-us/

1. After shutting down the device, try to open it and check for short circuits on the motherboard or power interface, then send us photos of the motherboard. You can click the link below for the operation guide video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMso-a184QI.

   Please rest assured that all recommended solutions are covered under warranty.

    
2. Please provide the device serial number (SN), which is located on the black label at the bottom of the unit.

Please contact our support team and provide photos showing the burnt components on your motherboard. We will proceed with the RMA process for you.

This may be caused by foreign objects inside obstructing the fan blades or bearings during low‑speed rotation. Please try different placement orientations, such as standing the unit upright or turning it upside down. If the low‑speed abnormal noise disappears after changing the orientation, this will confirm a hardware‑related issue.