Several game sessions are terminating abruptly, without any accompanying error notification.
Several game sessions are terminating abruptly, without any accompanying error notification.
Hello!
Recently, my aging desktop computer—approximately five years old—has begun exhibiting odd behavior. It functions adequately for web browsing, but video games consistently crash after only a brief period of play. Notably, I haven't made any modifications to the system’s hardware or software recently; all components remain as they were when it performed reliably, and I've been utilizing Windows 10 for several years. A suspicion is growing that my existing hard drive—a 1TB Seagate Barracuda (five years old) nearing capacity—is nearing the end of its lifespan. Despite a check with Ckdsk revealing no errors, it seems to be struggling.
Here’s a breakdown of my system configuration:
* Operating System: Windows 10 (64-bit)
* Processor: Intel Core i5-3570k
* Graphics Card: MSI GeForce GTX 660Ti 3GB PhysX CUDA
* Memory: Corsair Vengeance DDR3 1600MHz 8GB (2x4GB) CL9
* Motherboard: ASUS P8Z77-V PRO, Socket-1155
* Hard Drive: Seagate Barracuda 1TB
* Case: NZXT Phantom 410 midi tower
I've already attempted to resolve the issue by utilizing DDU (Display Driver Uninstaller) and reinstalling the latest Nvidia drivers. Furthermore, I performed a stress test with Furmark without encountering crashes, achieving peak CPU temperatures around 65°C and 70°C for the GPU. During these periods of instability, I experienced one blue screen error displaying “CLOCK_WATCHDOG_TIMEOUT.” Recently, I executed a Prime95 blend test and observed CPU temperatures reaching 80°C on one core, although the test only lasted a few minutes before resulting in another blue screen crash with “SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION.” I’ve ensured all drivers are current, based on Windows update information. However, I believe my BIOS may be outdated since it hasn’t been updated since acquiring the computer. Could this contribute to the problems?
Thank you in advance for any suggestions you can offer; I truly hope to restore my computer's functionality.
Edit 1: Following a Prime95 blend test with temperature monitoring, the CPU reached 80°C on one core before crashing. The error code was “SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION.” I have attempted updating my drivers, and Windows indicates that all software is up-to-date. However, I suspect an older BIOS version might be a factor.
You have successfully discovered that the CLOCK_WATCHDOG_TIMEOUT error is often linked to problems with your processor. Updating your BIOS may resolve this, and formatting your computer could likely provide additional assistance. It appears you are not experiencing any hardware complications at this time.
Regarding the CLOCK_WATCHDOG_TIMEOUT problem you’ve identified, it often stems from processor problems. Updating your BIOS should address this and formatting your computer may also improve the situation. It seems unlikely that you’re experiencing hardware complications, however.
Yes, I'm currently updating Windows because a recent release is available. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, I plan to update the BIOS and observe if there are any changes.