PC crashes unexpectedly during game loading.
PC crashes unexpectedly during game loading.
CPU: Ryzen 5 2600
GPU: Gtx 1660s
Memory: gigabyte b450m ds3h v2
Power Supply: antec v550 plus
RAM: g skill 8gbx2 3000mhz
Hello. My computer has been experiencing random crashes, especially during loading screens in certain games or mid-game. The issue isn’t consistent—sometimes it happens and sometimes not. For instance, when I launch BALDURS GATE 3, everything works smoothly in the menu. However, when starting a save file, it loads completely but then crashes. I’ve played COD:MW 2019 without any issues, SNIPER ELITE 4 also fine, and Commandos Origins is stable. But during loading after death, it crashes.
I tested these four games on three different physical drives: an M.2 NVMe SSD, a 480GB SATA SSD, and a 2TB HDD. The behavior remained identical across all drives.
My theory is that the power supply unit might be the problem. Here’s what I did to investigate further:
1. Performed a GPU stress test in Furmark for about 30 minutes—no crashes occurred. Temperatures were high but stable, no thermal throttling detected.
2. Ran a CPU stress test within Furmark—no anomalies or crashes.
3. Executed a memory test (MEMTEST) with all four passes and zero errors.
4. Conducted GPU and CPU stress tests simultaneously in Furmark for 5 minutes. No crashes, except when I opened Task Manager, which then crashed.
5. Ran Crystal Disk Mark—no crashes detected.
6. Checked the health status of the crystal disk; no errors or warnings, with a "good" rating.
7. Changed game locations to different drives as described earlier—behavior stayed consistent.
8. Disconnected all peripherals except monitor and keyboard—still experienced crashes.
9. Disabled XMP profile in BIOS—no changes made.
10. For the final test, I used a spare 450W PSU from a previous build. I split the power between two PSUs: ATX connectors and SATA drives came from the spare PSU, while the GPU and other connectors stayed with the original unit. In this setup, no crashes occurred. I attempted to alternate the GPU and ATX but found that the old PSU lacked necessary connectors for the GPU.
This suggests the problem might lie with the power supply itself. Or perhaps there’s another factor at play? I don’t have any spare parts to replace, so I’m seeking guidance. Could you assist me?
This device?
Official specifications:
https://www.antec.com/product/power/vp550-plus
If this is true, it's a low-quality power supply unit and should be replaced immediately.
Because the PSU supplies all the power to the system, it is the most critical part inside the PC.
That's why you should never compromise on a good PSU. Also, avoid purchasing used units.
For another perspective on your PSU, check the tier list provided by the manufacturer:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet...aS...973454078#
You'll see it is Tier E.
For a brand new unit, I recommend models from Tier A such as: Seasonic Focus/Vertex/PRIME, Corsair RMx/RMi/HXi/AXi, Super Flower Leadex Gold/Platinum/Titanium.
A 550W model works well. A 650W version is also acceptable.
(My three PCs are powered by Seasonic. I own a PRIME 650 Titanium (Tier A+), a PRIME Ultra 650 Titanium (Tier A+) and a Focus PX-550 unit (Tier A). Detailed specs with images are in my profile.)
Lowering the load on your Antec stabilizes the PSU, preventing it from causing GPU crashes. Still, a new PSU is essential.
I'm curious about your spare 450W PSU model or part number as well. Could you also tell me how old it is and whether it was purchased new or used/refurbished?
Antec one was purchased about five years ago. The other was roughly three to four years older, also bought new and unused. Both had their labels torn off. It's a very inexpensive unit and not very dependable. I kept it just in case I needed it later. I don't recall the brand.
The Antec one was bought to save money since other PSUs were expensive at the time, and this was the best option I could afford then. Still, it felt more stable than the current one.
I don't intend to use two PSUs; it was just for testing purposes.
So is the issue with the PSU?
If yes, then I'll purchase a better one next time.
Well, it is quite likely since the 10th test you did, confirmed as much.
No point to keep bad PSU around to power something. Since chances that it goes "pop" and fries everything it is connected to - is high. Same with your Antec unit since it is such a poor quality.