Hey there! I've got a custom-built PC from late 2019, though I changed my GPU in 2022. Here are my specs:
- GPU: 3060 Ti
- CPU: i7-9700K
- Motherboard: MSI Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon AC
- RAM: 2x8GB 3000MHz Corsair Vengeance
- PSU: CX650 (or CV650)
- Storage: Samsung 990 EVO Plus 1TB
For about the last two months, my PC has been randomly shutting down when I try to play newer games like CS2 or PUBG, usually around 15 minutes in. There's no warning or logs in the event viewer—just an immediate black screen like someone flicked the power switch. It restarts right after going down. Interestingly, older games like MW2 (2009), BO1, BO2, and even Minecraft don't cause any problems, nor does regular web browsing, which I've done for over 8 hours without a hitch.
I've tested both RAM sticks, and they seem fine, but I haven't run a memtest because I can't find my USB sticks. I've also fiddled with the cables but that hasn't helped either. I suspect the issue could be related to either my motherboard's VRM or my PSU failing, but since I'm not gaming much these days, I'd rather avoid spending hundreds on parts unnecessarily.
A weird thing that's occurred a few times is getting a BSOD with a kernel error, plus my PC sometimes asks for my BitLocker code when rebooting.
Any insights would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
4 Answers
Just shutting off like that usually points to a power issue, likely with your PSU. I saw you mention it's one of either the CV650 or CX650. If it's the CV650, that unit doesn’t have the best reputation. If you’re unsure which one it is, check the label. I recommend running a tool to gather system info and logs; it’ll make things like getting those dump files easier.
Sure! Download the tool from the link I've got here. Then run it and click 'Start.' It will open a link with your system data that you can share for troubleshooting.
I faced a similar issue with games that have anti-cheat systems, like Elden Ring. Updating my BIOS fixed the problem for me. You can grab the latest update from MSI's website to see if that helps!
I actually updated my BIOS last summer to the latest version, which was just released in 2024, so I'm not sure if there's anything newer.
Make sure to check thermals while you’re gaming. If your CPU, GPU, RAM, or disk overheats, it could be causing the shutdown. The event viewer might give you more clues about what's messing with your system, too.
I forgot to mention that my thermals look great—my GPU runs between 60 and 85 degrees, CPU around 70, and RAM is about 40, even under heavy load.
First off, getting dump files could help with the analysis of those BSODs you're seeing. If you can boot into Windows or Safe Mode, check the C:WindowsMinidump folder for any crash logs. If you find some, zip the folder and upload it to a file-sharing site—just make sure it’s easy to use since some are blocked. Also, having multiple dump files is more useful for troubleshooting than just one or none.
What's this tool you’re referring to? Can you share how to get it and use it?