Question I need help finding out if it's my PSU or GPU ?

[anrye]

So I got an RX 580 around 3 weeks ago, and it literally is acting like a stubborn child.

It sometimes just doesn't want to startup after a restart, it randomly stutters even when not under load(it takes a few minutes to happen after boot), flashes black and hangs at seemingly random times, etc etc.

If I run a stress test on it, it runs perfectly fine until around the 2 minute mark, then the entire pc just shuts down(Not overheating, I checked with MSI Afterburner and it stays at ~50-60°C). It functions perfectly fine for the first few minutes after a boot, sometimes even lasting for an hour before the problems pop up again.

Thing is, the pc runs perfectly fine on integrated graphics. No problems whatsoever.

I honestly don't know what to do anymore. I've tried:

• Booting into safe mode
• Reseating the GPU
• Resetting CMOS
• Updated BIOS
• Reseated RAM
• Replugging the power connector
• Reinstalled drivers

Specs:
Mobo: ASUS P8H61-M LX
CPU: Intel I5-2400
GPU: AFOX RX 580 8GB
RAM: HyperX 8x2 GB DDR3
PSU: Imperion ATX-500W
SSD: Midasforce 256GB

 

[CountMike]

So I got an RX 580 around 3 weeks ago, and it literally is acting like a stubborn child.

It sometimes just doesn't want to startup after a restart, it randomly stutters even when not under load(it takes a few minutes to happen after boot), flashes black and hangs at seemingly random times, etc etc.

If I run a stress test on it, it runs perfectly fine until around the 2 minute mark, then the entire pc just shuts down(Not overheating, I checked with MSI Afterburner and it stays at ~50-60°C). It functions perfectly fine for the first few minutes after a boot, sometimes even lasting for an hour before the problems pop up again.

Thing is, the pc runs perfectly fine on integrated graphics. No problems whatsoever.

I honestly don't know what to do anymore. I've tried:
- Booted into safe mode
- Reseating the GPU
- Resetting CMOS
- Updated BIOS
- Reseated RAM
- Replugging the power connector
- Reinstalled drivers

Specs:
- Intel I5-2400
- ASUS P8H61-M LX
- HyperX 8x2 GB DDR3
- AFOX RX 580 8GB
- Imperion ATX-500W
- Midasforce 256GB SSD

I would suspect that low end PSU first.

 

[anrye]

I would suspect that low end PSU first.

Yeah, me too. But my dad keeps saying it's the Graphics card that's the problem, and I can't test the Power supply because I don't have any money or friends that have a pc.

 

[CountMike]

Yeah, me too. But my dad keeps saying it's the Graphics card that's the problem, and I can't test the Power supply because I don't have any money or friends that have a pc.

Such low end PSU most often produce 50% or less of rated power which is always rated as just peak power for short time. Recommenced power for that GPU is (true) 450W , can draw up to 180W alone and PSU ism not one monolith power adapter, it has separate branches for every output and voltage and it may not have enough power on PCIe branch. 180W at 12v means 15Amps. On the sticker you should be able to see how power is divided per branch and or Voltage.

 

[DaleH]

Yeah, me too. But my dad keeps saying it's the Graphics card that's the problem, and I can't test the Power supply because I don't have any money or friends that have a pc.

Perhaps the GPU is drawing too much current. If integrated graphics works ok, then that's what is pointed to. One test you could make with a multimeter is to measure the PSU votlage with the integrated graphics vs. those when using the GPU.

 

[Dahifx]

So I got an RX 580 around 3 weeks ago, and it literally is acting like a stubborn child.

It sometimes just doesn't want to startup after a restart, it randomly stutters even when not under load(it takes a few minutes to happen after boot), flashes black and hangs at seemingly random times, etc etc.

If I run a stress test on it, it runs perfectly fine until around the 2 minute mark, then the entire pc just shuts down(Not overheating, I checked with MSI Afterburner and it stays at ~50-60°C). It functions perfectly fine for the first few minutes after a boot, sometimes even lasting for an hour before the problems pop up again.

Thing is, the pc runs perfectly fine on integrated graphics. No problems whatsoever.

I honestly don't know what to do anymore. I've tried:

• Booting into safe mode
• Reseating the GPU
• Resetting CMOS
• Updated BIOS
• Reseated RAM
• Replugging the power connector
• Reinstalled drivers

Specs:
Mobo: ASUS P8H61-M LX
CPU: Intel I5-2400
GPU: AFOX RX 580 8GB
RAM: HyperX 8x2 GB DDR3
PSU: Imperion ATX-500W
SSD: Midasforce 256GB

It sounds like you're dealing with a frustrating issue, and I can understand how challenging it can be to pinpoint whether the problem lies with your PSU or GPU. Let's go through some steps to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue.

1. Symptoms of PSU Failure
A failing PSU can cause various issues, including random shutdowns, stuttering, and failure to boot. Here are some common signs of a failing PSU2:

Random Shutdowns: The PC shuts down unexpectedly, especially under load.

Difficulty Starting: The PC has trouble starting up or requires multiple attempts.

Unusual Noises: The PSU makes strange noises, such as buzzing or clicking.

Burning Smell: A faint smell of burning plastic or ozone.

Frequent Crashes: The system crashes or shows blue screens frequently.

2. Symptoms of GPU Failure
A failing GPU can also cause similar issues, such as stuttering, black screens, and crashes. Here are some common signs of a failing GPU4:

Screen Glitches: Artifacts, unusual lines, or colors on the screen.

Frequent Crashes: The system crashes or freezes, especially during graphics-intensive tasks.

Black Screens: The display goes black or loses signal intermittently.

Performance Issues: Significant drops in frame rates or stuttering during gameplay.

Overheating: The GPU temperature rises excessively, although you've mentioned this isn't the case for you.

3. Testing the PSU
To determine if the PSU is the culprit, you can perform the following tests:

Use a Multimeter:

Test the voltage output of the PSU using a multimeter. Ensure the voltages are within the acceptable range (e.g., 12V, 5V, 3.3V).

Use a PSU Tester:

A PSU tester can help you quickly check if the PSU is functioning correctly.

Swap with a Known Good PSU:

If possible, borrow a PSU from a friend or use a spare one to see if the issue persists.

4. Testing the GPU
To determine if the GPU is the issue, you can perform the following tests:

Use Integrated Graphics:

Since your PC runs fine on integrated graphics, this suggests the issue might be with the GPU or its power supply.

Stress Test the GPU:

Use tools like FurMark or Unigine Heaven to stress test the GPU. Monitor for crashes or artifacts.

Check for Driver Issues:

Ensure you have the latest drivers installed. Use Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) to completely remove old drivers and then reinstall the latest ones.

Test with Another GPU:

If possible, test with a different GPU to see if the issue persists.

5. Additional Steps
Check Power Connections:

Ensure all power connectors to the GPU and motherboard are securely connected.

Monitor Temperatures:

Continue monitoring temperatures using MSI Afterburner or HWMonitor to ensure there are no overheating issues.

Update BIOS and Firmware:

Ensure your motherboard BIOS and GPU firmware are up to date.