GPU Problem - Restarting In-game

extraproblems

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May 18, 2014
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Here's my story/question, I hope someone can help --

In April 2013, I bought a PC (Intel Core i7-3770) that came with a GeForce GTX 650 2 GB and used it for 2 years with no problem, until I decided to get a new GPU. I purchased the GeForce GTX 970 SC 4 GB and every so often my PC would restart only in-game. I changed my settings to not automatically restart on error and to write minidump files but my PC never does, it just reboots in game. I monitored my temps and my card never overheated and my PC was cool all the time. I've put the 650 back in for now and no problems so far. Is the 970 I bought too much for this power supply or motherboard? Should I exchange it for an 800 series? any help would be appreciated


mobo: Gigabyte GA-B75M-HD3
psu: Azza Alpha 500watt
 
Solution

extraproblems

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May 18, 2014
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Hey thanks for the reply! I have been thinking I need a better PSU... Could this be the reason my PC refuses to show me a BSOD and write minidump files? Should I look for a 600 or 700 watt? Any recommendations? I have heard single rails are better, is this true? I'd like to spend no more than 100 dollars for the best I can get. I've also heard that too much wattage can be bad. Can u clarify? Thanks again for your help
 

Dee Kay

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A good PSU is one of the most important components of your system. You can check out PSUs at NewEgg or Amazon for the best price but don't buy anything listed in the tier 5 groups in the link I posted. You could get by with a 600 watt unit but a 750w gives you room to breathe in case you want to add other components.

There is no such thing as too much power, only unneeded expense if you buy a LOT more power than you need. As far as the rails go there are proponents of both systems so it is a matter of choice. Pick a good PSU that looks good to you after reading the reviews. Getting one at lower cost from the tier 2 or 3 list should be fine if money is an issue.

The BSOD's "could" be caused by the PSU but you need to read the codes to better narrow down the cause. Reading the admin logs also may help. The minidumps you need to make sure are turned on. Here is a link showing you where and how.
http://blog.nirsoft.net/2010/07/27/how-to-configure-windows-to-create-minidump-files-on-bsod/

 
Solution

extraproblems

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May 18, 2014
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Thanks for your help! I will definitely look into the PSUs. I have my settings that way and have tried different ways for weeks now, but still no minidumps or BSODs. All I have been able to do is look at the Event Viewer to see when the crash happened and tried googling but nothing. Thanks again for your response
 

Dee Kay

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Dec 22, 2014
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Yes that one will be more than enough for your needs and give you breathing room if you want to add something else.