Question Random shutdowns and restart loops once or twice each week. Is it my PSU or my mobo?
Question Random shutdowns and restart loops once or twice each week. Is it my PSU or my mobo?
I've been experiencing these issues for a few weeks now. My PC usually functions well for extended periods, but then it randomly shuts down every few weeks—usually within 5 to 10 minutes of use. After turning off the power switch and restarting, or using a screwdriver to jump-start the motherboard, it turns on again. However, it restarts multiple times before functioning normally, often restarting every 2 to 5 minutes for several cycles before working properly again for a few days. Sometimes it shuts down repeatedly before restarting, and I'm unable to pinpoint the exact cause. The problem isn't related to load or temperature; the shutdown-restart cycle happens very unpredictably, usually within the first few minutes after starting. The system runs for 10 to 12 hours daily with continuous use, even during this loop.
I've tried several solutions so far: updating drivers, installing fresh Windows, testing RAM one at a time with MemTest5, cleaning the PSU (it had a lot of dust), running CPU tests on prime95, and performing an OCCT power test for 5 minutes.
The error message I receive after every shutdown and restart is the same.
My computer specifications are:
- Intel i5-8600K
- Aorus Z370 Ultra gaming 2.0
- Corsair CX650 PSU
- Corsair Vengeance 2 x 16 GB DDR4
- Nvidia 1060 6 GB
How can I determine if the issue is with the power supply unit or the motherboard? It's urgent, and I need to replace the faulty part as soon as possible because of work commitments.
Checks for issues with power components and system logs prior to the restart have been performed.
It's definitely a hardware issue. The operating system is up-to-date, and the logs show only the usual error messages when the system shuts down unexpectedly.
Do you have another PSU to try? I'm curious if the protection might be tripping. It would be nice if PSUs had a display—like an LED or seven-segment indicator—to show why they were turned off. I talked to Corsair online (they offer chat support). He suggested contacting them, noting there are no active recalls for the CX-650, but he added: "Have you friend please reach out to us so we can assist them with their Power Supply... worth a shot."
In fact, I also have another PSU that I can borrow from my brother's PC, but I'm unsure how long to test it before using it. The shutdown-restart behavior is quite erratic and hard to predict. It hasn't occurred again since I shared my post (good luck)
The model I use is a Corsair CX650, and the other one is a Gigabyte 550W (I don't know the exact model).