desktop shuts off intermittently

[JillMWZ]

desktop shuts off intermittently

[Alden4]

Hi @JillMWZ,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

If your HP Pavilion Desktop PC shuts off intermittently, the issue could stem from several causes, including hardware, software, or environmental factors. Here’s a step-by-step troubleshooting guide.

Check for Overheating

• Symptoms: High temperatures cause the system to shut down as a safety measure.
• Fix:
  • Ensure the cooling fans are working.
  • Clean dust from the vents, fans, and internal components using compressed air.
  • Keep the desktop in a well-ventilated area.

Power Supply Issues

• Symptoms: A failing PSU might not provide consistent power.
• Fix:
  • Ensure the power cord is secure and the wall outlet is functioning.
  • If the PSU fan isn't spinning or the unit emits unusual noises, consider replacing the PSU.

RAM or Hardware Failure

• Symptoms: Faulty components may cause sudden shutdowns.
• Fix:
  • Reseat the RAM and other components like the GPU.
  • Run a Memory Diagnostic Test:
    1. Press Windows + R, type mdsched.exe, and follow the prompts.
  • Replace failing hardware if detected.

BIOS or Firmware Issues

• Symptoms: Outdated BIOS can cause instability.
• Fix:
  • Update your BIOS to the latest version from the HP Support website.
  • Ensure you're using the official HP update tool for reliability.

Software or Driver Conflicts

• Symptoms: A bug in software or drivers can cause crashes.
• Fix:
  • Check for updates for Windows and all drivers (use HP Support Assistant if available).
  • Check Event Viewer (Windows + X > Event Viewer > System) for error logs related to shutdowns.

Power Settings or Sleep Mode

• Symptoms: Incorrect power settings might cause shutdowns during inactivity.
• Fix:
  • Go to Control Panel > Power Options, and set the power plan to "High Performance."
  • Disable sleep mode and check if the issue persists.

[Alden4]

Virus or Malware

• Symptoms: Malware might interfere with system stability.
• Fix:
  • Run a full scan using Windows Defender or a trusted antivirus program.

Hard Drive or SSD Issues

• Symptoms: A failing drive can lead to sudden shutdowns.
• Fix:
  • Run CHKDSK:
    1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
    2. Type chkdsk /f /r and follow the prompts.
  • Consider replacing the drive if errors are detected.

External Devices

• Symptoms: Faulty peripherals may cause power instability.
• Fix:
  • Disconnect all external devices except for the keyboard and mouse. Check if the issue persists.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4

HP Support