System experiences frequent crashes during gameplay.
System experiences frequent crashes during gameplay.
This problem began roughly ten months ago after I updated the BIOS on my ASUS X570 Plus. The computer would shut down completely when using RGB lighting on the motherboard while the Corsair memory remained active. Checking the event viewer revealed an error code of 41-kernal power. A wall watt meter indicated a voltage of 122V, and the maximum draw I've observed is around 550W from the 650W PSU my EVGA PSU supports. After replacing the processor, I encountered crashes during benchmark tests lasting over three seconds. To improve stability, I lowered the clock speed to 3.2GHz and adjusted the BIOS settings to a VCore of 1.3. Reducing GPU power and clocks further helped, though it didn’t fully resolve the issue. Personally, I suspect the hardware or the PSU might be limiting power delivery quickly enough. Relevant components include the R7-3700x replaced with an R9-5950x, ASUS TUF X570 Plus (non-WiFi) with two Corsair Vengeance Pro RGB 32GB, and an EVGA GeForce RTX 3070 FTW3 Ultra Gaming 650W Ga, 80 Plus Gold.
According to what I've learned, kernel 41 issues are often linked to power problems. Consider switching to a different power supply; 650W might be too low for your 3070 model. Aim for at least 750W. It's also crucial to check how much power each rail can handle, since you might be drawing more from the 12V line than it supports, even if your PSU doesn't exceed its total rating which includes 5V and 3.3V outputs.
You increased your power usage from 90W to 142W, especially on the CPU. It seems your PSU might not be delivering enough power now.
I'm unable to check my computer right now to view my sticker. My model on the +12 rail should be 54A 649W. I do have a smaller PSU I tested last night. By splitting the load between the two PSUs (Mobo and CPU on one, GPU and SATA on the other), it seems the power supply is likely faulty because I can now run Starfield or 3D Mark benchmarks without issues.
It seems the power supply unit is likely the issue, and updating the CPU only improved stability. A reliable 650W PSU three years old should support a 550W system, considering the wall draw is slightly lower.