Occasional BSODs and game failures are common issues.
Occasional BSODs and game failures are common issues.
Hi, lately I've noticed more BSODs, not just during gaming. They also happen when I restart games back to the desktop. So far I've tried: checking temperatures, switching power supply, updating drivers and firmware, doing a clean install, changing RAM, disabling certain settings, adjusting RAM voltage, using different cables, moving my PC to the side, and even trying a new mouse. It seems these changes help with the crashes but can cause freezing. I've also changed storage to fresh Windows 10 and cleaned up everything. My cables look good, CPU pins are fine, and the mouse works with cable. Laying the PC flat instead of upright helped with the BSODs but not the game freezes. Today I checked my GPU and noticed two pins might be damaged—could that be the cause? Also, my PSU is ATX 2.3, which seems low; some recommend at least 2.4 or higher. What do you think about that? Here are my details: OS: Windows 11 CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 3600 6x 3.60GHz SoAM4 BOX CPU cooler: Thermalright HR-02 Macho Rev.A MB: MSI B450M MORTAR AMD B450 So.AM4 Dual Channel DDR mATX RAM: 32GB (2x 16384MB) G.Skill RipJaws V schwarz DDR4-3200 DIMM CL16-18-18-38 Dual Kit storage 1: OS: Samsung MZ-V7E1T0BW Intern NVMe SSD 970 EVO 1 TB M.2 storage 2: Crucial MX300 CT750MX300SSD1 750 GB storage 3: Western Digital WD 3D NAND SSD Blue 4 TB 2.5 SATA Serial ATA PSU: 450 Watt is fine! Everything seems to be working now!
Do you recall the BSOD error code? If not, open Event Viewer to find out what it said. It looks like there might be a memory issue rather than a GPU problem. This is supported by the fact that your system shuts down even without games running. Would you have run Memtest86 on your system?
I would let memtest86 execute 10 cycles to verify. Alternatively, you can perform standard tests twice (the default is 4 passes). I’d also attempt DDU and reinstall the graphics driver. From what I understand, it’s not the graphics card itself bending (my setup bends slightly). Unless you notice a screen artifact or experience crashes with software like MSI Kombustor or similar testing tools. The "damaged pin" likely isn’t the problem because the contact point appears to be past the missing finger. The power supply unit should function properly no matter the ATX version for your current hardware.
Examine the GPU PCIe port with a flashlight to confirm the presence of any particles
I can't dismiss my memory because I purchased a new kit from Kingston. My graphics driver also remains uncertain since I reinstalled Windows twice with fresh drivers each time. As far as I understand, everything appears clean. Edit: The pins are intact; it seems to be a safety mechanism. Updated February 19, 2023 by Razupaltuff
For those facing similar challenges, the mainboard appeared to be the issue. After swapping it, I still experienced a BSOD roughly once a week without needing a full Windows reinstall. I also attempted to use the second PCI-E slot on my old board, which functioned, but since that didn’t fit my GPU requirements, I opted for a new mainboard.