Hey everyone! I recently upgraded my laptop's RAM from 4GB to 16GB, but now I'm facing some serious issues. My laptop (HP14s dq5) gets really hot super quickly, especially when I'm using it while charging, and eventually it freezes. When I try to run more demanding tasks like gaming, it freezes much faster than it did with just 4GB of RAM. I've tried using 8GB and 12GB instead, but the overheating issue remains, though it does take longer to freeze. It's not a RAM issue, and I haven't yet tested for faulty RAM. The heat problem seems even worse in my dorm without AC. Additionally, I'm getting occasional BSODs. Any idea what could be causing this?
3 Answers
It sounds like your laptop might be struggling with thermal issues, especially since you mentioned it gets really hot. Have you tried checking the fan noise? If the fan is loud, it means it's working hard, but loud fans can indicate overheating too. Just ensure your laptop has proper ventilation and isn't sitting on something soft like a bed or couch. Putting it on a hard surface or using a laptop stand can really help with airflow!
Definitely check the thermal paste and ensure the fans are working properly. If your laptop is heating quickly, throttling the maximum performance can help reduce the heat. Try tweaking some power settings or even using software like Throttlestop to adjust the settings. It might reduce performance a bit but can help avoid freezes during high CPU tasks.
Since your laptop is relatively new, dust shouldn't be a problem yet, but it's a good idea to check. You can also try reducing the maximum processor speed in your power settings. This might help keep temperatures down, especially when plugged in. HP laptops have a rep for not cooling well, so adjusting settings might be your best bet for performance without overheating.
I see what you mean! I mostly use it on my desk, but I'll try a stand. Never thought about airflow being an issue.