Computer randomly shutting down -- don't think temp is issue

[Tokoro]

I've searched for a solution for this problem throughout the forum as well as through other computing forums, but can't find one that works for me.

My computer will shut down completely every one in a while when running games such as World of Warcraft. I'm actually quite confused about this issue because my CPU temp never reaches 50 C under load and is around 35-37 C idle.

My specs are:

3.0 Ghz. Prescott
nVidia 6800 GT
420 watt Thermaltake PSU
Asus P5GD1 Mobo
1 Gig Corsair RAM (2x 512)
WD Raptor Hard drive
Windows XP Home Edition SP2

If I let my case run w/o the side, it won't restart, however, the temperature isn't very different from when I have it with the side on -- therefore I'm confused.

Also, when the computer does shut down, it shuts down immediately and it won't let me turn it back on until I turn off the power supply -- wait -- then turn it back on.

Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Stephen

[Google]

[ToggleHead]

first things first.....disable "Automatically shutdown on error"


then tell us what the bluescreen says.....

still kinda sounds temp related if the side panel matters.....how are you getting your temp readings?
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[fussnfeathers]

I'm guessing it's a PSU issue. As the PSU heats up, it loses power, and if it gets hot enough, it won't have enough juice left to power your rig, so BAM, down it goes. The fact that it'll run fine with the side off is a clue, and after you let it cool down, it runs fine is another. Try to get ahold of another PSU of equal (or greater) wattage, and see if the issue goes away. If it does, it's time for a new PSU.

You can also boot into your BIOS, and watch the voltages. If they're flucutating alot (greater than .5v either way) that's your problem.
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Big enough to scare you

[Tokoro]

I'm getting my temp readings through Asus probe, but I did double check with my BIOS.

Thanks for the info about the PSU, I'll check to see if there is fluxuation.

I'll keep you posted.

.. This forum is the best!

[fussnfeathers]

What model TT PSU is it? Post the model and amp ratings per rail (listed on the side of the PSU). That way we can at least rule out that the PSU is underpowered for your system.
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Big enough to scare you

[Tokoro]

I'm at home right now and my comp is at my dorm. But here's the model:

Thermaltake
Model TT-420AD(DUAL FAN)
Series Silent PurePower
SPEC
Type ATX
Maximum Power 420W
Fans 2
PFC No
Main Connector 20-Pin
Dual +12V No
SLI Support No
Power Good Signal 100-500ms
Hold-up Time > 16ms at Full Load
Efficiency > = 65%
Over Voltage Protection +5V trip point < +6.8V
+3.3V trip point < +4.5V
+12V trip point <+15.6V
Input Voltage 115/230 V
Input Frequency Range 50/60Hz
Input Current 10A @ 115V, 5A @ 230V
Output +3.3V@30A; +5V@40A; -5V@0.3A; +12V@18A; -12V@0.8A; +5VSB@2A

[fussnfeathers]

Ok, that's a problem right there............even if it IS working right, at normal operating temps, it's only putting out 275 watts or so, which is far below what your rig needs. Taking off the side of the case allows for direct airflow into the PSU fans, which cools it down a bit, and probably brings it up closer to 300w output or so, maybe a bit higher.

With your rig, you need a minimum of 350 watts at operating temps to run without problems.

That particular PSU also has a long history of overloading and cutting out under heavy loads, due to the low efficiency rating, mainly. It just can't handle the power draw of a new-ish machine.

Do what Toggle suggested, and if you're getting a BSOD, make sure automatic shutdown is unchecked, and get the error code, but if I'm reading you right, you're not getting a BSOD, you're just losing power completely. Time for a new, better PSU.
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Big enough to scare you

[Tokoro]

Doh.

Thanks for the help. Yeah no BSOD on my shutdowns the rig just goes out.

So now, do you guys have any recommendations for good (and not too expensive <100) PSUs?

[[KoG]^weaZel]

Good call FnF. I couldn't have said it better myself.
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"Barney is like the Michael Jackson of PBS." - James Tybeerious

[ToggleHead]

YUP! good one.

With no bluescreen on error.....points me ot the PSU too....good call FnF
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