Question about a faulty PSU and updated recommendations?
Question about a faulty PSU and updated recommendations?
Hello! It's been about a month now that my computer keeps restarting under heavy use, especially when I'm playing games or launching applications. I performed CPU and GPU stress tests, monitored temperatures, and even reformatted the drive. The CPU and temperature readings were normal, but the GPU consistently caused an immediate shutdown. The Event Logger recorded Event ID 41, with all error codes at zero.
After removing the dedicated GPU, the stress test functioned properly with the integrated one. Still, I couldn't compare the power consumption between the two GPUs. Unable to determine whether the issue lay with the power supply unit or the graphics card, I brought the machine to a professional for diagnosis.
They explained they conducted tests on my PC, updated the BIOS, and confirmed everything was operational. They suggested opening games to see if they would trigger a reboot and mentioned that "Sons of The Forest" was the only game causing this behavior. However, it seemed to happen because the system didn't meet its requirements—possibly freezing instead of rebooting. They also noted that the game "Wallpaper Engine" ran for hours without issues.
They pointed out that they tested components like memory, CPU, and GPU, but didn’t check the power supply unit. Since they couldn’t test it locally due to time constraints, they recommended sending the PC to a lab, which could take up to a month. I decided to try fixing it myself or taking it elsewhere.
Later, when I tried plugging the PC into a different outlet without using an extension cord, the problem disappeared. The GPU stress test ran smoothly, and the game played without issues. About a week later, the issue reappeared while playing *Uncharted*. They suggested testing the PSU and mentioned they would need to send the PC to their lab for evaluation.
This led me to believe my power supply might be faulty. Additionally, I’m cautious about spending more than €100 on a replacement, as I don’t want to compromise quality or waste money. I’m considering upgrading to a 750W or 850W 80 Plus Gold PSU, but I’m unsure if it’s necessary or the best option. I also lack reliable sources for purchasing PSUs in Portugal and worry about brand reliability.
In the meantime, I’m exploring temporary fixes like using GPU Tweak III to adjust power limits or limiting the GPU’s draw. Should I run further tests on my system, or should I go ahead and replace the PSU? If replacing, what model and supplier would be best?
I would simply swap out the PSU. The Nox models are generally poorly constructed. They produce a lot of low-quality components, mainly from Spain and Portugal, which drives down prices there compared to other Western markets.
This business is even more untrustworthy than most companies that sell substandard power supplies. In fact, Nox PSUs were excluded from our recommended list because they were part of the bait-and-switch strategy with reviews. They were found sending out early prototypes to reviewers and then replacing parts on the production line with cheaper or lower-quality items, including faulty capacitors that made it impossible to verify their existence.
Frequent restarts when power is applied are likely due to overheating or defective components. These issues are easy to detect, and since I would replace this unit even without a crash, I believe upgrading it is straightforward.
PCPartPicker Part List
Power Supply:
BitFenix Formula Gold 750 750 W 80+ Gold Certified ATX Power Supply
(€112.93 @ Amazon Espana)
Total: €112.93
Costs cover shipping, taxes, and any available discounts
Created by
PCPartPicker
2023-03-19 11:13 CET+0100
If you're in Spain—where Nox PSUs are most common—the price is essentially the lowest for a good 750W unit.
A modular option is slightly more expensive. If you prefer a modular model without overspending, there are 650W units available.
PCPartPicker Part List
Power Supply:
Corsair RM650 (2019) 650 W 80+ Gold Certified Fully Modular ATX Power Supply
(€102.00 @ Amazon Espana)
Total: €102.00
Costs include shipping, taxes, and discounts when applicable
Generated by
PCPartPicker
2023-03-19 11:15 CET+0100
The decision hinges on whether you value staying close to 100 euros or future-proofing. Good modular 750W PSUs in Spain are typically priced between 120-130 euros. This was more affordable a few years back, but supply problems and inflation have affected availability.