CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201)HardwareMedium
A client reports that their new gaming PC, which uses a high-end graphics card and a powerful CPU, occasionally shuts down unexpectedly during intense gaming sessions. The client suspects overheating, but temperature monitoring shows normal levels. Which of the following components is most likely causing the issue?
- AFailing RAM module
- BInsufficient power supply unit (PSU)
- COutdated motherboard BIOS
- DCorrupt hard drive firmware
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Insufficient power supply unit (PSU)
Unexpected shutdowns during high-load activities like gaming, especially when overheating is ruled out, are a classic symptom of an insufficient or failing power supply. The PSU cannot deliver enough stable power to all components when they draw maximum current.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Failing RAM typically causes blue screens or system instability, not sudden shutdowns.
- C. Outdated BIOS might cause compatibility issues or performance quirks, but less likely sudden shutdowns without other symptoms.
- D. Corrupt hard drive firmware would likely cause data access issues or boot failures, not unexpected shutdowns during gaming.
Power Supply Unit (PSU) Failure
A PSU failure occurs when the power supply cannot deliver stable and sufficient electrical power to the system components, often leading to instability or shutdowns.
- Common symptoms include unexpected shutdowns, reboots, or failure to power on.
- Can be caused by insufficient wattage, component degradation, or power surges.
- Often manifests under high system load when components draw maximum power.
Memory trick: Shutdowns under load often mean the 'Power' is out of 'Supply'.