Random Restart on Minimal Load? [PSU Functions in Another System]
Random Restart on Minimal Load? [PSU Functions in Another System]
Hello everyone. About two weeks back, I purchased a nearly used PC from FB Marketplace through a trusted builder who is also a PC enthusiast. A week later, after regular use—video editing, gaming, and browsing for more than six to eight hours daily—I’ve been facing unexpected restarts without any BSODs. It’s really puzzling and I’m now searching for solutions. At low usage levels (even without gaming or editing), the machine would shut down, then restart into Windows, allowing me to log in before it would stop for a few minutes or roughly 1 to 3 hours. These events have occurred repeatedly across different system times. Once it does restart, the downtime continues to decrease. It happened even in Safe Mode and while checking my RAM with Windows Memory Diagnostic. This might be a lengthy explanation, but here’s a brief snapshot of my setup when the problems started: CPU: Intel Core i5 12600K, Cooler: Themalright Peerless Assassin White, Motherboard: Gigabyte Z690 AERO G DDR4, RAM: Corsair Vengeance LPX 32GB (2x16 Dual Channel), SSD: Samsung SSD 850 EVO 250GB & CT1000MX500SSD1 1TB, GPU: ZOTAC GeForce 1070, PSU: Inwin P85 850w Gold Fully Modular, Chassis: Lian Li Lancool 216 with stock 160mm aRGB fans plus two more LianLi SL120 fans, OS: Windows 11 Pro 64-bit. I also checked my BIOS settings before and after replacing the PSU; Event Viewer recorded two errors—Event ID 56 and Kernel-Power (Event ID 41)—before and after crashes. The components, except the PSU, were acquired in November 2023. The seller claims he bought the PSU firsthand in June 2023 and used it in his rig prior to switching to a new one. His BIOS version is F27. I haven’t updated it since then, and even in BIOS mode the machine would restart once. I don’t use an UPS. The crashes occurred even when using AVR software, plugged into a different outlet, and switched power cords. I also haven’t overclocked (my knowledge is limited). XMP settings were toggled but the issues persisted. Reboots continued after removing the GPU, reattaching PSU cables, and swapping RAM. Another factor to think about is grounding; my technician friend was concerned about our home’s electrical stability. He experienced a minor shock when plugging in and had to recheck cables and components. The most significant change was three days ago after testing two PSUs (one from a friend and one from my old system, FSP Hexa HE-700). Since then, the InWin P85 on my old rig has remained stable—no random resets or shutdowns, even after over four hours of stress testing. Replicating the problem is proving more challenging than expected. I’m wondering if the issue lies with the PSU or if there’s a deeper hardware problem, such as a failing motherboard. Any insights would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your attention! Edited September 11, 2024 by Sefinx
You purchased the PC from an individual rather than a reputable seller? Was there any warranty included? If a warranty was available, select that first before attempting actions that might cancel it.
He’s capable enough to handle the return process for the PSU. I’m not intending to purchase anything else that might cancel his warranty. My main concern is figuring out why the InWin P85 is behaving this way and how it could happen.
Electrical grounding problems can definitely disable protection on many devices. The Inwin PSU might be more affected by this issue. If the computer works fine with another power supply, I’d consider accepting the seller’s offer to swap it out. The PSU is usually the cheapest component, so replacing it might be more practical than overhauling the whole system. For a lasting fix, a UPS could offer some help, but it won’t solve everything since they also rely on grounding. The ideal solution would be fixing the house’s grounding system. Good luck!
The problem might stem from poor grounding or too much ripple. It’s possible the house is more responsible than the power supply unit. If excessive ripple is the main issue, it could point to the PSU rather than just our wiring.
As discussed earlier, certain power supplies react more to electrical issues (like spikes or irregularities). Yes, the PSU is tripping, but the real problem lies in the electricity being slightly abnormal. If you have a UPS, it likely switches to battery power often due to electrical disturbances. Upgrading to a PSU with better tolerance or improved filters could help. Still, addressing the overall electrical system is essential for the entire house. Let me know if this clarifies your concern.
Certainly. Thank you for your response. I look forward to your next question. Have a great day.
I wanted to check in with my father about our home's electricity setup. Since I live in the Philippines, power comes through a line-to-line connection via an electric company post. It's not buried underground like in the US or other places. A local electrician mentioned the voltage varies, sometimes dropping below and rising above 220V. They think we should confirm this with our utility to see if their lines are affecting ours. My dad is confident the wiring inside the house is fine, but he recommends upgrading to a better AVR and connecting it to the breaker. I'm thinking about installing a UPS and a power supply with higher tolerance or better filters. I already have a surge protector, but I'm not sure if that solves the issue. I understand the long-term fix would involve checking if the line-to-line connection is intact and ensuring the wall outlet is properly earthed. I won't use the InWin P85 right now. If you have any suggestions, it would be really helpful.