Game starts, freezes computer. Hard reset needed

[xbread]

I've been having issues over the past few days when I was playing Borderlands 2 or other games. Last week, the games ran perfectly without a problem. Now, when I start Borderlands 2, my computer either shuts off after the Nvidia splash screen, or freezes needing a hard reset. I've encountered the same problem trying to play Saints Row the Third. I hit "continue" from the main menu, and the same thing happened while loading: freezes or shuts off randomly.

I don't experience this problem while playing non-3D games like Cave Story+.

My computer would also freeze at random times when browsing the web, watching YouTube videos.

The problem started occuring today. I tried to reinstall drivers, reseat the GPU, and none of it works.

My specs are as follows:

CPU: AMD Phenom II x4 970 3.5ghz
Mobo: Asus M5A87
Cooler: Hyper 212 EVO
GPU: EVGA 9800GT 1GB Green Edition
RAM: 4GB x2 (8GB total) Corsair XMS3 1600mhz
Case: thermaltake v4 black edition
PSU: Corsair CX600
OS: Windows 7 Home Premium 64 bit

Is there a way to fix this issue? Do I have to reinstall the OS at all?

PS: I had this system for a little over a year, and installed the hyper 212 evo a couple months ago

Thanks!

 

[xbread]

Just decided to RMA the PSU. Will be sending it out pretty soon. Then I'll see if it's really the issue within the next couple of weeks.

 

[Rockdpm]

I guarantee you its your Graphics card..

 

[xbread]

I'll consider that too. I'm planning on borrowing my friend's GT 440 if I start to run into issues again.

 

[Rockdpm]

if your friends 440 fixed the issue then bam its your GPU

 

[xbread]

So I just received my replacement PSU from Corsair and installed it in my system. I stress tested my CPU for a couple of hours on Prime95 without errors, and currently stress testing my 9800GT with Furmark (Temps steadied at 72 degrees C after 24 or so minutes).

I'll be running and using my computer normally for the next week or so and I'll let you guys know if I start running into problems again.

 

[Rockdpm]

Awesome. keep us posted

 

[xbread]

Hey guys.

Turns out the PSU was the problem after all. No major issues after a couple weeks of use. Thanks for the help!

 

[xbread]

Best answer selected by xbread.

 

[Rockdpm]

Glad we could help. let us know if you have any more issues