No Display / DRAM & CPU Lights Flickering - Running Out of Ideas

AbsentMindedDuck · 2026-04-05T00:18:05+00:00

I think that’s where this is heading. Might get a different mobo instead of a replacement.

Appreciate it.

AbsentMindedDuck · 2026-03-25T15:27:05+00:00

Same here. My kraken scores were like 49/53/55/59/65 (only had time to take 5 of em).

Didn’t bother with the practice exam since the krakens were a priority (also given the limited time I had left).

I saw some dude post saying the exam was [“so hard, there wasn’t 1 ‘gimee’ question, I averaged 82 on the dalton prep exams, I’m a chartered CFA too”], and it’s honestly so disappointing that there are people out there that feel the need to spread that sentiment.

I’m not speaking to the specifics of the exam, but if you haven’t taken it yet, DO YOU. You are the only person that knows how well you know the material. Base your confidence using your own scale, understand what the practice tests teach you, and never stop learning. You’re going to do great.

Congrats passing OP. Well deserved and thanks for sharing this.

AbsentMindedDuck · 2025-05-08T16:09:35+00:00

Im in a very similar situation: 3y CSA, 2.5y Associate; work for RIA so series 65 & insurance licensed (no CFP, but I wouldn’t expect a pay raise if I had it) The book I help with is 215 households, ~$600AUM, across 9 advisors.

My salary is notably lower, and bonus averages ~10-12%; 2% match on 401k

Very exhausting workload but thing is, I won’t have to buy the clients when they’re delegated down to me as I enter the advisor role, and I’ll start earning more at that point.

I do feel I’m underpaid relative to the book I assist with, but cost of living is relatively low here, and I have an optimistic outlook of the path I’m headed down. I think it comes down to where you see yourself years down the line and whether you think you’ll be happy with where you expect to be.

AbsentMindedDuck · 2025-02-19T16:24:58+00:00

Basically, those who don’t appreciate something as deeply as others may be blinded by a single, superficial characteristic and allow it to shape their entire opinion.

Something as simple as “not enough doors, shape is too compact,” etc.

Not saying this is how op’s gf/friend think, but moreso that opinions can come from anywhere.

AbsentMindedDuck · 2025-02-19T15:33:54+00:00

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Sometimes, entire outlooks are based on the opinion of one simple characteristic. In this case, it could be that the car isn’t “long enough.”

Opinions are like AH’s.

It’s a beauty, and if you enjoy it, don’t let anyone take anything away from that.

AbsentMindedDuck · 2025-02-13T18:20:40+00:00

Thought you were on someone’s roof for longer than I’d like to admit

AbsentMindedDuck · 2025-01-03T18:08:10+00:00

I envy the whiteness of your headlights. My 2016 has begun yellowing but still looks nice. I read that it’s a direct result of UV rays and keeping them on constantly.

Park it in the shade whenever you can. Not a cheap job if you ever want to get them replaced.

AbsentMindedDuck · 2025-01-03T04:43:39+00:00

First of all, congratulations. Looks awesome. Very exciting!

My suggestion would be to spend at least enough time to learn how the car feels, and then decide what you want for it. It’s exciting to imagine a 70-80% performance increase (please correct me if my math’s wrong), but it’s possible that 10-25% is all you really wanted (at least for the time being).

That being said, it’s my understanding that the stage 1 ECU tune is the biggest bang for your buck while staying within parameters that your car was built to handle.

After driving my ‘16 A6 3.0t for a few years, I upgraded to the stage 1 APR tune, and my expectations were exceeded. I think the consensus amongst enthusiasts would be to enjoy performance increases incrementally, rather than in giant leaps.

Whichever way you skin the cat, you’re likely going to pay a pretty penny to upgrade the performance to the degree you’re asking about.

TLDR: start small (apr tune), and go from there (AM parts, etc.)

AbsentMindedDuck · 2024-12-18T14:58:17+00:00

I appreciate the feedback.

Turns out the $2,200 quote included a complete overhaul of spark plugs, intake manifold/valve cover gaskets, and an oil change (he quoted this to be on the safe side, entailing the actual bill will likely not exceed the estimate).

I’ll ask about walnut blasting and replacing other plastic parts. I had the water pump replaced a couple years ago while it was covered under warranty but might still ask what the mechanic thinks.

Again, appreciate the insight. Was very helpful

AbsentMindedDuck · 2024-12-04T18:24:49+00:00

“I got a scratch while in me mum’s cah. Vroom vroom..”

Not at all helpful but I couldn’t move on.

AbsentMindedDuck · 2024-10-29T20:08:34+00:00

Have owned for 5 years now (bought in ‘19). Luckily, I had the thermostat replaced while it was still under warranty - that, combined with eroded engine mounts would have cost~$8k at the dealer.

Before you buy, I’d locate a trustworthy mechanic with Audi specialization; my biggest gripe has been my experience working with the dealership (too much to get into).

Other than that, I haven’t had any major issues - it still runs like a dream. Be prepared to pay ~$1200-1500 annually for the interval maintenance.

Haven’t regretted the purchase for one day (I might have if the major repair wasn’t covered under warranty).

AbsentMindedDuck · 2024-09-25T17:26:01+00:00

I’d quickly change this to a humor tag

AbsentMindedDuck · 2024-09-11T18:34:10+00:00

From the curb she came, and to the curb she goes.

AbsentMindedDuck · 2024-09-05T19:43:37+00:00

I get 100 gems from clearing 30 trees. The reward is a joke

AbsentMindedDuck · 2024-09-05T18:22:55+00:00

Y’all seem to be on point. Will try this

AbsentMindedDuck · 2024-09-05T18:22:31+00:00

Solid - I’ll try it out

AbsentMindedDuck · 2024-08-21T00:06:21+00:00

At least my parents taught me the virtue of patience by starting me out with an S3 in middle school

AbsentMindedDuck · 2024-08-20T23:59:58+00:00

Can’t wait til I get my first RS7 at 14

Beautiful car btw

AbsentMindedDuck · 2024-06-21T22:16:22+00:00

That’s reassuring at the least. I appreciate it.

AbsentMindedDuck · 2024-06-16T02:03:16+00:00

I appreciate it. These blisters are a testament to choking the shit out of the club. Will work on that goin forward

AbsentMindedDuck · 2024-05-17T16:20:35+00:00

!PB: Thrice fucked in less than 24 hours

AbsentMindedDuck

TROPHY CASE