Problem Continues: Application Crashes
Problem Continues: Application Crashes
I'm trying to resolve a recurring crash on my computer before incurring further costs for a solution.
Some time ago, on Windows 10, I encountered random VIDEO_TDR_FAILURE screens at unpredictable moments. This problem had occurred before, and I managed to resolve it previously. I attempted another fix, but it failed. I reviewed various guides, including advice from Jayztwocents, and explored forums, encountering a peculiar behavior in Windows where it consistently disregards your requests for automatic driver updates, causing the system to reset itself immediately upon connection.
Additionally, I performed an extensive RAM test using Memtest86+, which completed successfully. I also stress-tested my graphics card and processor with Prime95 and Furmark for extended periods.
Unfortunately, these tests didn't provide much relief. It was only slightly better during the earlier stage when the previous driver was installed, but once the update occurred, things returned to normal.
This situation served as a crucial introduction to why I decided to switch to Linux Mint 22.
Mint has improved over time, though it still has its limitations. I returned to an older driver version, and the crashes shifted from happening every hour to occurring monthly. Since Linux Mint doesn't suffer from BSODs, I now experience sudden screen freezes with unresponsive inputs, often accompanied by background audio continuing to play until data is exhausted (for instance, it recently played all its buffered YouTube content before going silent).
Another aspect is the "crash loop" that appears after a crash or when powering off the machine.
It reaches the Linux Mint login screen and freezes immediately.
Then it bypasses the login and freezes within seconds.
Subsequently, it repeats this sequence multiple times.
After the BIOS splash, it stops displaying any image—no signal to the monitor, just a blank black screen with no backlight, even when power is on.
Eventually, once the crash occurs, the system enters a "no picture at all" state, sometimes repeating this pattern several times in a row.
Over time, the machine eventually stops these occurrences and operates normally again.
Finally, regarding these crashes: whenever it freezes, the power button ceases to function, but the reset button does work.
In summary, these recurring issues suggest something might be wrong with the motherboard.
Ignores your requests regarding driver updates even when you attempt them. This situation led me to retire the Z97 Stinger platform I had been using since Windows 10 was persistently trying to install drivers it deemed necessary, which resulted in BSoD occurrences. After migrating to AM5, I have continued using Windows 11.
Hardware details:
Intel i5-8400 processor on an MSI Z370-A motherboard
32GB RAM
Two 2TB SATA SSDs plus one 240GB M.2 drive
Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070Ti from MSI
When sharing a troubleshooting thread, it's standard to provide complete system specifications. Please list your build details as follows:
CPU: CPU cooler: Motherboard: RAM: SSD/HDD: GPU: PSU: Chassis: OS: Monitor
Include the age of the power supply unit in addition to its make and model. Also, note the BIOS version for your motherboard at this time.
Does this not suggest the issue lies with the motherboard?
You've experimented with various operating systems; consider migrating the same installers along with your hardware to another (donated) motherboard to determine if the problem continues, thereby eliminating the motherboard as the cause.
CPU model is Intel i5-8400 with Hyper 212 Evo cooler. Motherboard is MSI Z370-A PRO. RAM consists of two sets of G.SKILL Ripjaws V Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4 2400. Storage includes two 1TB SATA SSDs and one M.2 240GB drive. GPU is MSI Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070Ti. Power supply is EVGA 110-BQ-0500-K1 500 BQ 80 Plus Bronze Semi Modular 500W, purchased in 2018. Chassis is Fractal Design Define R6 Gunmetal. Operating system is Linux Mint 22. Display setup features two monitors at 1080p, with an optional third via USB (supports drawing tablet), plus a Blu-ray reader/writer drive, a USB-C expansion card, one unpowered USB hub, and one powered USB hub.
PSU seems to be the problem—it's seven years old and of poor quality.
What's your budget?
I'm looking for a 750w PSU with gold finish, similar to Seasonic Focus.