The PC stops working when the GPU is connected, but it functions properly after removing the NVMe SSD.
The PC stops working when the GPU is connected, but it functions properly after removing the NVMe SSD.
I’m facing a puzzling problem with my Dell OptiPlex 7040 MT. Whenever I install a discrete GPU, the system freezes under load—even with minimal usage (around 20–30%). Everything functions perfectly without the GPU. Previously, it worked fine with the same GPU, but suddenly it would crash unexpectedly.
Details:
- Intel i5-6500 processor
- 12GB DDR4 RAM (1×4GB + 1×8GB)
- MSI GeForce GT 730 2GB DDR3 GPU
- Genuine Dell 240W PSU (just replaced recently)
- 1TB SanDisk Extreme NVMe SSD
What I’ve tried:
- The GPU works in another PC and passes stress tests.
- Both PCIe slots on the 7040 showed the same problem.
- No overheating observed.
- RAM tested alone and together—passed diagnostics.
- CPU runs smoothly without GPU and stays cool.
- Swapping the NVMe drive didn’t fix the issue.
- Replacing CMOS battery, clearing CMOS via jumper, testing Service Mode—still no change.
- Minimal setup (CPU + RAM + PSU) works; adding GPU causes shutdown.
Now the unusual part:
- Removing the NVMe SSD and booting from a SATA SSD works perfectly.
- But once the NVMe drive is connected (even if booted from SATA), the system crashes again under load.
Summary of tests and findings:
- GPU: functions elsewhere, no overheating.
- PSU: replaced with genuine Dell unit.
- CPU: stable, cool, no issues.
- RAM: all tests passed.
- CMOS/BIOS: fully cleared and reset.
- NVMe: seems to trigger the crash even when used as boot drive.
What might be happening now? What could be causing this change?
I know it could seem like a power problem with the 240 W OEM PSU, but this configuration has been functioning properly before. The setup works just fine with the same GPU and NVMe SSD. Additionally, the system operates perfectly when the NVMe drive is removed and booted from a SATA SSD, even though the NVMe remains connected but is never used. Under GPU load, the PC still crashes when using the SATA SSD instead. Thank you for your response!
The 4PIN CPU power supply port is distinct from a standard power supply and may require an adapter.
The standard 4-pin connector is compatible. No converter required for this type.