Computer stops working or restarts during gameplay
Computer stops working or restarts during gameplay
Hello,
I’m just a newcomer to the forum and couldn’t find a better spot to share this.
About two weeks ago, I began noticing frequent PC shutdowns or restarts, especially while gaming.
The error message displayed was “kernel power 41 – no further details available.”
I tried several troubleshooting steps:
- Inspected all cables and connections, removed components, cleaned everything, reapplied thermal paste on CPU/GPU, then reassembled the PC.
- Disabled every overclock setting.
- Updated all drivers.
- Ran registry cleanup tools.
- Used Windows System File Checker and repair utilities (sfc scannow, CHKDSK, DISM – no results).
- Performed malware scans (no results).
- Applied quick fixes from forums and YouTube videos (disabling auto-restart, fast startup, etc.).
- Ran diagnostics on RAM, CPU, and GPU (no issues found).
- Switched the power supply to a new one (from 530W to 700W) and connected it directly to the wall.
- Conducted simultaneous stress tests for CPU and GPU without shutdowns.
- Swapped the motherboard with one that worked perfectly in another system (B350 Tomahawk → B450-F Gaming).
- Updated the BIOS.
Despite these efforts, the problem persisted. I’m feeling really frustrated – I’m at my limit trying to figure out what’s causing this.
Please help me – I really need it.
Jay
Specs:
ROG STRIX B450-F Gaming
Ryzen 5 1600x
Corsair Vengeance RGB Pro SL 2x8 GB
GTX 980 ti
BeQuite! Pure Power 11 - 700W
Samsung SSD 1 TB
I don't notice any reference to temperature. Could you clarify what you're asking about regarding CPU and GPU temperatures during idle, maximum loads, while gaming and stress tests? Also, how recent is the GTX model?
I perform both Prime95 and FurMark at the same time for several hours, and both my CPU and GPU reached a maximum of 74°C. While playing games and near shutdown/restart, the temperatures dropped significantly (below 70°C). The GTX 980 Ti is 7-8 years old—yet it doesn't seem important.
most graphics stress tests focus on rendering basic shapes and patterns repeatedly, ensuring the processor can maintain output speeds without issues.
a challenging game involves complex 3D models, textures, and intensive processing.
this complexity might relate to newer games or the difficulty of handling updated DirectX features.
over time, a card may struggle with these advanced calculations if it has developed defects.
The game being played is significantly older than my card and mainly depends on CPU usage.
I just want to confirm you haven't reached any hasty conclusions.
I've already invested many hours in troubleshooting and spent a considerable amount of money on new components.
I don't wish to waste another couple of hundred euros on a new GPU simply because I feel it might fix the problem.
If you're most confident about what I told you, then I'll give it a shot.