Check if the Intel + NVIDIA or AMD + NVIDIA laptops are stuck or freezing, and see if a solution exists.
Check if the Intel + NVIDIA or AMD + NVIDIA laptops are stuck or freezing, and see if a solution exists.
Hello, this appears to be the appropriate area for sharing. I'm dealing with a persistent issue on my dual-GPU Windows laptop (the impact may vary). This information comes from my own troubleshooting as well as advice and suggestions from others.
I've gathered some video evidence of the problem:
1. A clip demonstrating the GPU waking up unexpectedly, which leads to system lockup and affects battery life (not triggered by GPU wake events).
Title: Nvidia dGPU waking for no reason
2. Another video showing the system freezing or locking up when accessing certain settings menus in Windows Settings, such as 'Power & Battery' and 'Display'.
Title: System locks-up
Details:
The issue happens randomly, sometimes while opening the context menu from the desktop (right-click), selecting 'Power & Battery', and then 'Display'. It also occurs when launching specific applications like browsers on 24H2.
Device Specifications:
Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 15ARH7
Ryzen 5-7535HS processor, RTX 3050 6GB GPU, 16 GB RAM, 120 Hz display connected to AMD iGPU with no MUX switch.
What I've tried:
- Safe mode (using 'MS-Display drivers' and disabling all third-party drivers) resolves the stuttering/lagging.
- Disabling the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 6GB GPU in Device Manager also eliminates the problem.
- Enabling 'iGPU-only mode' via Lenovo Vantage app works as a workaround.
What causes it:
It appears to be related to the Nvidia Optimus technology (though I'm not certain). Sometimes, when performing certain actions, the system attempts to wake the GPU, which triggers the lagging observed in the videos. I checked the GPU status in 'HWInfo64' and confirmed it remains asleep, indicating Optimus is functioning correctly. The GPU does briefly wake during the stutter as shown.
I've also used Windows Performance Analyzer and examined the Computation section (DPC/ISR duration under module/function). The file dxgkrnl.sys appears at the top. Despite trying various solutions, a permanent fix hasn't been found. It bothers me when the cursor becomes stuck intermittently.
Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
Forgot to mention, it's happening on Windows 11, haven't noticed it on 10.
Is there any way to generate log or something to know the actual cause? I tried using Windows Performance Analyzer and from checking the Computation section (by DPC/ISR duration my module/function), I see dxgkrnl.sys at the top.
Windows 10 and 11.
Check Reliability History/Monitor, Event Viewer, and Windows dump files.
You can explore these sections directly and read the logs. Each entry can be clicked for further technical information. The content might not always be useful.
Dump file: begin here:
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/tutori...-dump-file
In general, be ready to share findings from the dump files.
There are several Forum users who know how to analyze and understand these results. (Please note, I’m not one of them.)
Regarding dxgkrnl.sys
Just a reminder, you can easily locate other relevant links and details.
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/answer...-sys-error
Please proceed with caution and avoid acting on links that promise to solve "the problem."
Avoid downloading or making registry changes unless you’re certain.
Seek confirmations and agree on the information before proceeding.
It appears this issue has been recurring for a long time and hasn't been fully resolved. I've encountered this problem on various laptops recently in different stores. Whenever certain actions are taken on the operating system, the GPU is mistakenly activated, leading to a brief 0.5-second freeze.
You need to be using the default configuration, meaning iGPU only, without any MUX settings which should allow dGPU to switch automatically when running games, videos, or photo programs.
Previous reports that prompted developers to address it include:
- Intel + NVIDIA Laptop Freeze Problem - Microsoft Q&A
- AMD + NVIDIA Laptop Freeze Problem - Microsoft Q&A
Status: Partially Fixed
I believe the video examples and earlier reports are sufficient evidence.
Some video samples of the issue:
- Video title: Nvidia dGPU waking for no reason
- Video title: Nvidia dGPU waking for no reason (video about GPU false activation causing lock-up and battery impact)
- Video title: System locks-up
- Video title: System locks-up
I’m unsure what the developers are doing, but I was advised to report this via Microsoft’s 'Feedback Hub app' with clear evidence.
I don’t know how many people are affected—I noticed it on several dual-GPU laptops at different stores, and had to investigate after it caused navigation difficulties. Please submit your feedback if you’re impacted so the issue can be addressed properly. The incorrect dGPU wake-ups also lead to significant battery drain.
Combined the merged thread with the current thread and relocated the thread to the Laptop Tech Support section.