Computer freezing randomly or when playing video/launching some applications.

MyBurger_ · May 7, 2015

The computer is using Windows 8.1. Here's the specs:
CPU: AMD 860K
GPU: XFX R9 290X
RAM: 8GB Fury HyperX
MB: ASRock FM2A88X
HDD: Seagate Barracuda 1TB
SSD: Sandisk X110
PSU: Corsair CX600

The computer will freeze randomly when being used. It will freeze when playing videos, or launching some applications. It's not where the application doesn't respond, it freezes to where task manager will not open, and I'm forced to boot it off using the power button. I've tried several steps to fix this. I've done the following:

Sent GPU to XFX for them to conduct tests on it - it passed the tests.
Changed out the PSU to a Corsair CX750, problem was still there.
Re-installed Windows 8.1 twice, didn't help.
Put in another set of RAM, still no change.

I've had one other 'tech-savy' guy take a look at it. and he suggested a 1000W PSU. I have no idea how that would help, considering I've always heard 500W will be enough for any single GPU build. But, if you have any suggestions, please let me know. I'm out of options.

digitaldoc · May 7, 2015

1000W PSU would be overkill.

You have plenty of RAM.

Run CCleaner to get rid of the internet gunk.

Upgrade the MB bios.

You may need a new MB.

MyBurger_ · May 7, 2015

digitaldoc :

How exactly would I go about upgrading the BIOS? I've never had to do such a thing.

digitaldoc · May 7, 2015

http://www.asrock.com/mb/AMD/FM2A88X-ITX+/?cat=Download&os=BIOS

Latest Bios is 2.6.

Download the file and run it. Hope you don't lose power during the update or else the MB is toast.

avaava · May 9, 2015

I have the same problem with my new custom build. Let me tell you what doesn't fix the problem
Upgrading PSU, flashing the bios, reinstalling windows.
I've tried that and a lot more and still have the same issue.
I haven't seen anybody with these freezes actually switch their motherboard. I think that may be the problem.

digitaldoc · May 10, 2015

There are times when the MB is the issue, and needs to to be swapped out. If the latest bios does not help, we may be approaching that point. Also, consider the RAM and the memory before tossing the MB. In my experience, the CPU is rarely the culprit.

avaava · May 11, 2015

Too bad switching out the motherboard is harder than switching out the CPU. Plus you've gotta reinstall Windows.

digitaldoc · May 11, 2015

Yes, and the RAM may need to be switched also with a MB change.

avaava · May 17, 2015

Try reseating your CPU, applying fresh thermal paste, and cleaning out your case. I was getting 2-3 freezes a day and haven't gotten any since I did that. Also, a technician told me swapping out the ram usually fixes this problem, and if it's a motherboard issue there will usually be blue screens in addition to freezes.

digitaldoc · May 17, 2015

Swapping out the RAM only works if it is a RAM issue.

digitaldoc · May 18, 2015

Sometimes the obvious can be elusive...

MyBurger_ · Jun 4, 2015

Ordered a new motherboard. will report back with results when I'm finished.

digitaldoc · Jun 4, 2015

Which MB did you order?

MyBurger_ · Jun 5, 2015

digitaldoc :

This one. A nice price as well as rating, and should suit my needs.

digitaldoc · Jun 5, 2015

Nice MB, hope it works out.

MyBurger_ · Jun 8, 2015

Switched out the motherboard and it works fine now! Didn't have to switch out the RAM. Glad it's working now.

digitaldoc · Jun 8, 2015

That's great news, and thanks for the followup.

Computer freezing randomly or when playing video/launching some applications.

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