Help on Computer/Partly Overclocking

[Leungwk01]

As you may know or remember that I built my computer just over 14months ago.
Everything was fine apart from one thing which I never really fixed as I didn't see it as a big problem. But now I'm giving/selling my computer away so I'd like to fix it before I build a new one.

The problem is the computer just suddenly stops responding like it crashes. The monitor goes to no-signal and the keyboard doesn't work (caps/num lock light doesn't change when I hit the key)
Everything inside the case is still running like the fan etc.

It isn't really an overclocking problem because it still does the same, even at stock setting without any bios tweaking.
Atm, the computer hasn't restarted for at least a week (at 3.2Ghz) but I know for sure it will do it again in the near future and really want to fix it.

In case specs are needed here are some of it it:
CPU = Q6600
Mobo = Gigabyte GA-EP35C-DS3R
GPU = GTX 260
PSU = BFG (not sure model but 850W)

The temps idle is around 27-35

I was thinking it would be a PSU or either the motherboard problem but not fully sure.

Thanks for any help/info

[EekTheCat]

Re: Help on Computer/Partly Overclocking

Run Memtest yet? I'd guess either RAM or bad VGA, assuming no other card in use.
Better fill your signature with the complete system spec so that others can better help.

[Leungwk01]

Re: Help on Computer/Partly Overclocking

I am sure that it wont be the RAM because I've tried memtest before with all passes. I have also replaced them with some corsair dominator 2x2GB and still had a problem before I returned them.
I'll fill my sig in. (I have actually got it posted somewhere anyway, just a case of copy/paste)

Bad VGA as in the graphics card or one slot of the graphics card? Because I've tried another monitor before.
Doubt its the OS because it started with XP and then vista and now windows 7.

[Leungwk01]

Re: Help on Computer/Partly Overclocking

Sig updated

[wazza300]

Re: Help on Computer/Partly Overclocking

i know that sound blaster software can cause alot of crashes,try updating to latest soundcard drivers

[Leungwk01]

Re: Help on Computer/Partly Overclocking

I'll like to add that the sound card was only added recently. So its not to do with that but thanks anyway.

Things added recently was SSD, sound card, antec 1200 and maybe more but can't think of it.
The original components which I first got and which had the problem were:
Q6600, GTX260, PSU, Mobo, 1TB HD, RAM.

So it'll be either the components above. I came to the conclusion its either the PSU or mobo. Doubt its the other components but I could well be wrong.

What I'm waiting now is for my computer to have the same problem so I can post you guys what it says in event viewer.
I looked around before and it maybe something like power kernal.

[henson]

Re: Help on Computer/Partly Overclocking

Try what the 1st post said and run memtest. See what it tells you.
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[Conners]

Re: Help on Computer/Partly Overclocking

If you think the PSU is the problem you can test it with a multimeter or if you have another one you can try.

[EekTheCat]

Re: Help on Computer/Partly Overclocking

I am sure that it wont be the RAM because I've tried memtest before with all passes. I have also replaced them with some corsair dominator 2x2GB and still had a problem before I returned them.
I'll fill my sig in. (I have actually got it posted somewhere anyway, just a case of copy/paste)

Bad VGA as in the graphics card or one slot of the graphics card? Because I've tried another monitor before.
Doubt its the OS because it started with XP and then vista and now windows 7.

Bad VGA as in the card. I've known a couple of cases where cards caused hard crashes like yours although not many.
PSU problem could also cause something like that. Better do what Conners say and grab a multimeter.
Also, do the crashes happen when the system is already warm or when it's cold too? Anything overheating?

[Leungwk01]

Re: Help on Computer/Partly Overclocking

@henson - There's no need for a memtest because it started when the RAM was new. Also I brought some corsair dominator as I thought that was the problem but it wasn't because the problem still exist with the new RAM. Therefore problem lies somewhere else unless I'm unlucky to have 6 faulty RAMs....(tried with 1 stick of RAM)

@conners - The PSU could be changed but they aren't really cheap for a half decent brand. However since I'll be building a new I7 build it's going to be quite inconvenient – I will have no time to fit the PSU in. (They’re picking up the computer while shipping my components to me.....)

@EekTheCat – So it may even be my graphics card.... That is something I don’t intend to replace if I’m honest.
I don’t think the crash has anything to do with the temperature because it can be underload with temperature of 55 Max, and still not crash but it can crash when the temps are idle at 35. (The temps are on 3.2Ghz, so on stock it will likely 47max, 30idle)
Using rainmeter, it stated that my computer has been on for 18hours for general work and gaming but next day it can crash in under 30mins.

On the test with multimeter, any recommendation for which would be a decent one?
And this guide would be enough to test?

 http://www.driverheaven.net/guides/testingPSU/

PS: Its going to be hard to see if its the PSU when I decide to replace it seeing as the computer hasn't crashed or anything for the past 10 days....weird.

[Lsdmeasap]

Re: Help on Computer/Partly Overclocking

Are you manually setting your memory multiplier/strap, memory and Northbridge voltages? If not this could be the issue, with 6GB at stock or not you need to set a few things manually

I would also advise you to be sure you are using the latest BIOS as well. You can check current version if you are unsure by looking in CPU-z Mainboard tab or by pressing F9 on the MAIN BIOS Page. Latest BIOS for your board and I do suggest using it is F4
GIGABYTE - Support&Download - Motherboard - BIOS - GA-EP35C-DS3R (rev. 2.1)

If you flash please read this guide and DO NOT use @BIOS >>

http://forums.tweaktown.com/f69/bios-flashing-how-qflash-guide-27576/

It really does sound to me like a memory issue, slight incompatibility, or incorrect settings.

There is ALWAYS a need for Memtest, and this is the suggested version >>
Memtest86+ - Advanced Memory Diagnostic Tool

New ram or not, it can be faulty on day one when you receive it. I do see you bought additional memory but I just wanted to make that clear to you as you should not be ruling it out as a non-issue due to the fact that it is new ram.

Now that you do have 6GB, this also brings in more issues to consider. First you need to be sure they are the same model/specs/version. So are they? And for sure you will need to set some BIOS settings manually with 4-6GB, Auto is not going to work or be stable. If you will accept that this may be the cause, can you please give me your full current settings and I will advise back. Template is in my signature

As for PSU Testing, yes that guide would be fine if you wanted to test that way. You could also just do a simple check with a PSU Tester such as this, of course it wont be as detailed though but it will tell you if your PSU is failing

http://www.performance-pcs.com/catalog/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=20378

[Leungwk01]

Re: Help on Computer/Partly Overclocking

Are you manually setting your memory multiplier/strap, memory and Northbridge voltages? If not this could be the issue, with 6GB at stock or not you need to set a few things manually

I would also advise you to be sure you are using the latest BIOS as well. You can check current version if you are unsure by looking in CPU-z Mainboard tab or by pressing F9 on the MAIN BIOS Page. Latest BIOS for your board and I do suggest using it is F4
GIGABYTE - Support&Download - Motherboard - BIOS - GA-EP35C-DS3R (rev. 2.1)

If you flash please read this guide and DO NOT use @BIOS >>

http://forums.tweaktown.com/f69/bios-flashing-how-qflash-guide-27576/

It really does sound to me like a memory issue, slight incompatibility, or incorrect settings.

There is ALWAYS a need for Memtest, and this is the suggested version >>
Memtest86+ - Advanced Memory Diagnostic Tool

New ram or not, it can be faulty on day one when you receive it. I do see you bought additional memory but I just wanted to make that clear to you as you should not be ruling it out as a non-issue due to the fact that it is new ram.

Now that you do have 6GB, this also brings in more issues to consider. First you need to be sure they are the same model/specs/version. So are they? And for sure you will need to set some BIOS settings manually with 4-6GB, Auto is not going to work or be stable. If you will accept that this may be the cause, can you please give me your full current settings and I will advise back. Template is in my signature

[URL]http://forums.tweaktown.com/f69/new-built-pc-overclock-problem-28774/index2.html[/URL]

Post #16

As for PSU Testing, yes that guide would be fine if you wanted to test that way. You could also just do a simple check with a PSU Tester such as this, of course it wont be as detailed though but it will tell you if your PSU is failing
CoolMax Ultra Deluxe 24-Pin Power Supply Tester w/ LCD Display Products Model: PS-224 [PS-224] : Performance-PCs.com, ... sleeve it and they will come

[Leungwk01]

Re: Help on Computer/Partly Overclocking

   ACT to ACT Delay (tRRD)_________ 4
  Rank Write to READ Delay________ 4
  Write to Precharge Delay_________ 8
  Refresh to ACT Delay______________ 58
  Read to Precharge Delay__________4
  Static tRead Value_______________8
  Static tRead Phase Adjust________ [Auto]
  
  CPU/PCIEX Clock Driving Control [800mV] Not there
  CPU Clock Skew Control [normal]               Not there
  GMCH Clock Skew Control [Normal]      Not there
  
  System Voltage Control____ [Manual]
  DDR2 OverVoltage Control__ [+0.300V]
  PCI-E OverVoltage Control_ [+0.2V]
  FSB OverVoltage Control___ [+0.2V]
  (G)MCH OverVoltage Control [+0.3V]
  CPU Voltage Control_______ [1.38125V]
  
  Limit CPUID Max. to 3.....................: [Disabled]
  No-Execute Memory Protect............: [Enabled]
  CPU Enhanced Halt (C1E)................: [Disabled]
  C2/C2E State Support....................: [Disabled]
  x C4/C4E State Support..................: [Disabled]
  CPU Thermal Monitor 2(TM2) ...........: [Enabled]
  CPU EIST Function.........................: [Disabled]
  Virtualization Technology................: [Enabled] Enabled if you use Vmware/Virtual PC
  
  Integrated Peripherals
  Legacy USB Storage Detect___________________[Enabled] *Note* Must be enabled to flash from USB

[Leungwk01]

Re: Help on Computer/Partly Overclocking

   ACT to ACT Delay (tRRD)_________ 4
  Rank Write to READ Delay________ 4
  Write to Precharge Delay_________ 8
  Refresh to ACT Delay______________ 58
  Read to Precharge Delay__________4
  Static tRead Value_______________8
  Static tRead Phase Adjust________ [Auto]
  
  CPU/PCIEX Clock Driving Control [800mV] Not there
  CPU Clock Skew Control [normal]               Not there
  GMCH Clock Skew Control [Normal]      Not there
  
  System Voltage Control____ [Manual]
  DDR2 OverVoltage Control__ [+0.300V]
  PCI-E OverVoltage Control_ [+0.2V]
  FSB OverVoltage Control___ [+0.2V]
  (G)MCH OverVoltage Control [+0.3V]
  CPU Voltage Control_______ [1.38125V]
  
  Limit CPUID Max. to 3.....................: [Disabled]
  No-Execute Memory Protect............: [Enabled]
  CPU Enhanced Halt (C1E)................: [Disabled]
  C2/C2E State Support....................: [Disabled]
  x C4/C4E State Support..................: [Disabled]
  CPU Thermal Monitor 2(TM2) ...........: [Enabled]
  CPU EIST Function.........................: [Disabled]
  Virtualization Technology................: [Enabled] Enabled if you use Vmware/Virtual PC
  
  Integrated Peripherals
  Legacy USB Storage Detect___________________[Enabled] *Note* Must be enabled to flash from USB

I'll post the results of memtest when I'm back from school.

[Lsdmeasap]

Re: Help on Computer/Partly Overclocking

Thanks for your updated settings. Can you please post me your full settings so I can advise back suggested ones to use for 4GB?

Let's try 4GB alone now please until we can get you going

And please do go ahead and update the BIOS first, be sure to read the guide so you do it correctly and don't run into any issues.