Computer began to freeze rapidly once it powered on.
Computer began to freeze rapidly once it powered on.
Hello!
I own a pre-built CLX computer that previously ran smoothly without any problems. Recently, it started freezing intermittently, only occasionally, no matter how much load the system was under. Now it freezes almost immediately after booting. The loading dots on the boot screen sometimes appear, and other times I reach the desktop, but once it gets to the desktop it becomes unresponsive in about 2 minutes or less.
I can stay in BIOS for as long as needed without freezing. Booting in safe mode still causes it to freeze. I've tried swapping RAM in different locations, both sticks, but the issue remains unchanged. Disconnecting all other drives left only the boot drive active, which didn't help.
I'm leaning toward a hardware problem since I don’t have replacement parts yet. I’m looking for any suggestions that might help identify the cause.
Welcome to the forums, newcomer! I own this computer, which is pre-built from CLX, and it has been functioning smoothly for quite some time without any problems. Is there a warranty available for this system?
Mobo: x570 gaming edge wifi
What BIOS version are you using for your motherboard?
GPU: rtx 3080
+
PSU: EVGA 850 supernova
EVGA is the manufacturer of the unit, while Supernova refers to the series from which the PSU originates. The 850W rating is the advertised power consumption; could you tell me what model your PSU is and how recent it is?
That said, users have been warned about the RTX 3000 series experiencing significant temporary load increases. This prompted recommendations to overprovision power supply capacity beyond just the GPU specs when purchasing a PSU for such a setup. For an RTX 3080, a reliable 1KW to 1.2KW PSU is suggested. If you're considering an RTX 3090, a 1.2KW to 1.5KW PSU would be appropriate. These figures aren’t meant to be taken lightly.
Source (borrowed, not purchased) a well-built 1.2KW PSU from someone nearby and I’d like to know if the problem continues.
I’m currently unable to replace parts until I locate the right one.
Troubleshooting isn’t about blaming a single component; it’s a methodical process of narrowing down potential causes until you identify the exact issue.
BIOS version is E7C37AMS.1C0. The machine was purchased roughly five years ago, and I assume it hasn't been used with a PSU that's been sitting unused; the same would apply. The model is an Evga 850 GA. I was leaning towards a PSU problem. I plan to search for a spare and see if I can borrow one. My main concern was whether those temporary loads would spike during higher demand, leading to consistent freezes at the same load level. Regarding troubleshooting, I meant checking other possibilities besides swapping the PSU—since I’m an electrician with the necessary tools to test voltage and current. This is something I frequently do, though it’s not common for computers.
Mobo: x570 gaming edge wifi
https://www.msi.com/Motherboard/MPG-X570...FI/support
BIOS version is E7C37AMS.1C0. There are pending updates available. I recommend updating the BIOS to 7C37v1S1 (beta version), then clearing the CMOS after confirming the flash was successful, and checking if the problem remains.
For troubleshooting, consider alternatives like replacing the PSU to see if it resolves the issue. Updating the motherboard BIOS is one option. Rebuilding a bootable USB installer for the OS and reinstalling without connecting any drives in offline mode is another suggestion. Installing the OS on a spare drive would be best if you need to back up data that can't be saved due to restrictions.
As an electrician, I have the necessary tools to verify voltage and current levels.
Views: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnRyyCsuHFQ
Views: https://youtu.be/nZcyhcPVxUM
Hello Sir
If you experience no problems or freezing when booting into BIOS, why not attempt a Windows reinstall?
I considered reinstalling a new operating system because everything is at risk, but it froze during the attempt. I can't perform a fresh install without a hard freeze, which would take about the same time as a normal boot. When thinking about flashing, my main worry is whether freezing could permanently damage the system, especially since it's been using the current BIOS version without issues for some time. I'm willing to try if it seems safe. A fresh Windows install will likely freeze quickly, which usually resolves most problems. It's a reliable method, though I might consider using a spare drive instead.
When I thought about doing the flash, my only concern is if that might freeze up would that potentially brick the whole thing, combined with the fact it's been running that BIOS ver for a while now with no issues.
I went with the info you included of how you're able to remain in BIOS indefinitely but if you're worried about the board ending up bricked, the board has a Flash BIOS button on the rear;
to help facilitate a BIOS recovery. Though it'd be a good idea to hold off on this until you've sourced a higher wattage PSU as stated above.
Though I could try and use a spare drive. install it on that, then plug that in to the computer. Didn't think of that.
Unless your donor system is the exact same motherboard, that's a bad idea as you're introducing another anomaly to the problem.
I'll start by checking the PSU first. I'm not very comfortable with software details, so if a BIOS update doesn't require going beyond the BIOS, I think I can handle a BIOS flash. Regarding the spare drive, I meant it for swapping in a fresh Windows installation, not for BIOS updates. I agree that updating the BIOS, which is an older system, would be a safer initial step.