PC Expert Services, Computer and laptop repair in Irvine, Orange County, CA

why is my custom gaming pc crashing ?

A crashing custom gaming PC can stem from various issues, including overheating, faulty hardware, outdated drivers, or RAM problems. To troubleshoot, check temperatures, ensure components are properly seated, update drivers, and test RAM stability.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of potential causes and troubleshooting steps:

1. Overheating:

Check Temperatures:
Monitor your CPU and GPU temperatures during gaming using monitoring software. If they reach high levels, it could be a sign of overheating.

Ensure Proper Cooling:
Make sure your CPU cooler is properly installed and that your case has adequate airflow.

Clean Dust:
Dust buildup can hinder cooling, so clean your PC’s fans, heatsinks, and case.

2. Hardware Issues:

RAM Problems:
Faulty or mismatched RAM can cause crashes. Test your RAM stability.

Power Supply Issues:
A faulty or insufficient power supply can lead to crashes, especially under heavy load.

Motherboard Issues: A faulty motherboard can cause random crashes or shutdowns.

Graphics Card Issues:
A faulty or overheating graphics card can lead to crashes during gaming.

3. Software Issues:

Outdated or Corrupted Drivers:
Ensure your drivers, especially for your graphics card, are up-to-date.

Driver Conflicts:
Conflicting drivers can cause instability.

Corrupted Operating System:
A corrupted Windows installation can lead to crashes.

Background Applications:
Some software can interfere with gaming performance, so close unnecessary programs.

4. Troubleshooting Steps:

Check Event Viewer:
Look for error messages in the Event Viewer (Windows + R, type perfmon, press Enter, expand Monitoring Tools, select Reliability Monitor) to identify potential causes of crashes.

Check for Error Codes:
If your PC beeps or displays error codes during startup, note them down and research their meaning.

Reseat Components:
Ensure all your components, including RAM, graphics card, and power supply connectors, are properly seated.

Try a Different Power Supply:
If you suspect the power supply, try a different one if you have access to one.

Clean Install Windows:
If you suspect a corrupted Windows installation, try a clean install.

Stress Test Components:
Use stress testing software to identify potential hardware issues.

5. Specific Issues:

Blue Screen of Death (BSOD):
If you’re getting BSODs, search for the error code online to find specific solutions.

Game-Specific Crashes:
If the crashes only occur in specific games, it could be a game-related issue.