PC malfunctions – kernel version 41 detected.
PC malfunctions – kernel version 41 detected.
Hi, I’ve been facing the BSOD in CSGO, especially during gameplay or at the start of matches, for about a week now. The system logs mention Kernel Power 41. I looked up what that means and have a few questions. Could it be linked to the CPU being overclocked to its boost frequency? Or might it indicate a power delivery issue? My setup includes an ASUS Prime B450 motherboard, MSI GTX 980 with 4GB RAM, G.Skill AEGIS 3000MHz DDR4, a 500GB NVMe SSD, two HDDs (160GB WD Blue, 240GB Seagate Barracuda), and an EVGA 600W PSU. I’m using the latest Windows update and have all fans running at maximum speed. The CPU voltage is around 1.25V, possibly higher. I’m wondering if this is related to overheating or power supply problems. I hope you can offer some advice or tips. Thanks!
Ensure your drivers are up to date and turn off unnecessary programs via Device Manager. You may need to search for the drivers specific to your computer.
You're using a B450m-k. I have this board. The VRM package isn't designed for overclocking—it's the lowest-end board available before A-series chipsets. Active cooling could help if the VRMs are reaching shutdown temperatures (125°C). EVGA offers solid, decent, and poor PSUs; you might want to try another model but verify VRM temperatures first. Good luck!
To actively lower VRM temps you’d likely need a heatsink and possibly a small cooler. The existing heatsink might only slightly reduce temperatures. Since you have just one 3-pin chassis fan, adding a splitter could help. You already have a 92mm or 100mm fan in the back, which generates a lot of heat—consider upgrading to a case with better airflow or switching to a dedicated front panel cooler if needed.
Absolutely, a splitter would be really helpful. The case layout matters a lot. Probably not adding heat sinks to the VRMs, but ensuring good air movement is key. A 92mm fan could work, though you’d need proper airflow around it. Your wife’s case has some issues with airflow. I modified an old Antec unit from the lower range. It was a solid metal panel on the side, and I installed a large fan inside. It really improved things.
You placed the fan on the left side panel and checked the VRM temperatures via the HW monitor. The readings are: 0: up to 72°C max after benchmarking from CSGO, 1: 48°C max, and 2: 52°C max. For monitoring, focus on the temperature that matches your current setup and performance needs.
Which temperature sensor should you choose? Focusing only on MB temperatures might suffice, but testing suggests it may still be active.
When the board includes the sensors, the initial reading will show VR in the details. If no VR (voltage regulator) appears, it suggests there might not be an external sensor for readings on that board. MB temps usually relate to the chipset or a PCB sensor measuring temperature, though it seems like a better airflow could be making a difference. On hot days with warm surroundings, occasional problems may persist, but we’ll check if these changes actually improve performance in typical conditions. We’ll find out!