HP OMEN 40L Gaming Desktop CPU capped around 0.4ghz

[R3ggo]

The computer is the OMEN by HP 40L Gaming Desktop PC GT21-0xxx

I have had this computer for a few years and never set it up but I finally got around to it and the CPU is only giving about 9% and wont go above 0.4ghz usage. I have tried almost everything I have seen to try an solve the issue with no results. I tried editing my power plan and making the minimum CPU usage 100%. I looked into updating the bios but HP support assistant said it was already updated and I'm not one to go poking in all that.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @R3ggo,

  

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

It sounds like your CPU is stuck in throttle mode, also known as CPU throttling, which can be caused by thermal issues, BIOS settings, or power management restrictions. Let's go through a step-by-step fix:

Check if the CPU is Thermal Throttling

Your CPU might be overheating and reducing performance to avoid damage.

Download & Install HWMonitor or HWInfo

• Look at the CPU temperature (if it’s above 90°C, it's overheating).
• If temps are fine, move to Step 2.

Clean the CPU Cooler & Reapply Thermal Paste (If Temps Are High)

• Dust buildup can cause overheating.
• If you've never changed the thermal paste, consider replacing it.

Check Windows Power Settings

If power settings are capping your CPU, try this:

1. Open Control Panel → Power Options
2. Select High Performance (or Ultimate Performance, if available)
3. Click Change plan settings → Change advanced power settings
4. Expand Processor Power Management → Minimum Processor State
   • Set both Plugged in and On Battery to 100%
5. Expand Maximum Processor State
   • Set both to 100%
6. Restart the PC and check Task Manager → Performance tab

Disable Intel or AMD CPU Throttling Protection

Your system might be in a low-power state mode due to a bug.

Open Command Prompt as Admin

Run this command: powercfg -h off

(This disables hibernation, which can sometimes interfere.)

Restart the PC and check Task Manager

 

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Check BIOS Settings for CPU Throttling Limits

1. Restart your PC and enter BIOS (Press F10 or Del at startup)
2. Look for Intel SpeedStep (if Intel) or Cool’n’Quiet (if AMD)
   • Disable it
3. Find Intel Turbo Boost or AMD PBO
   • Enable it
4. Save and exit

Check for Motherboard Power Issues

If the power supply isn't delivering enough power, the system throttles the CPU to prevent damage.

• Try unplugging unnecessary peripherals (like RGB lighting, extra USB devices).
• Check the CPU power cable on the motherboard (make sure it’s securely connected).
• If possible, test with another higher wattage PSU (Power Supply Unit).

Update Chipset & CPU Drivers

Sometimes, outdated drivers cause CPU throttling.

1. Go to HP’s website and check for any updates specific to your OMEN 40L.
2. Download and install the latest chipset drivers for your processor.
3. Restart and check CPU usage again.

Reset BIOS (If Nothing Works)

If the issue persists, try resetting the BIOS to default:

1. Restart your PC and enter BIOS
2. Look for Load Default Settings or Reset to Factory Settings
3. Save and exit

If the CPU Still Stays at 0.4GHz:

• If your temps are fine, but it's still stuck, it could be a motherboard or power supply issue.
• Try running in Safe Mode to see if a background process is capping performance.
• Run a CPU benchmark (Cinebench or UserBenchmark) to check if the CPU hits normal speeds.

Let me know how it goes, and I’ll help you troubleshoot further if needed! 😊

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?"—your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,