If I use my pc for playing a video game, such as WOW, I can play for about ten minutes, then my pc just shuts down. If I wait for about 10 or 15 min, I can turn it back on. If I don't play a video game, my pc will stay on all day and night with no problems. I recently changed my video card thinking that was the problem, but with the different video card, my computer will still shut down after about 10 to 15 min of playing, so my question is what the heck is wrong?
2 possible issues come to mind: 1) the computer is getting hot (CPU, memory or video card), 2) the power supply can't keep up with the demand.
Try using a program that lets your track your computer's internal temperature. System Information for Windows, http://www.gtopala.com/ , is the one I use. Depending on the cause, you may need to increase the ventilation of your case (add fans - slot cooler by the video card, front, back or side panel.). If the CPU is getting hot, make sure that the CPU cooler is working and consider removing it and reapplying a new layer of thermal paste before reattaching the cooler.
If the problem is the power supply, check the specs on your devices (memory, CPU, video card) and the power supply load rating. You may need to upgrade the power supply.
I hope this helps.
Cindy Wells
(I am not a gamer but the default power supply that came with my computer didn't have enough power for the added memory and video card. I replaced that and added a back fan (spot available), a slot cooler, a drive bay fan and cut a hole to add a side panel fan.)
Testimonial: "ty for the help, I am going to replace my power supply, and add another fan as well"
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