Laptop Randomly Freezes, Forced to Shut Down

[Krestova]

Hey there, my laptop randomly freezes, and im forced to shut it down every so often. I checked windows logs and saw this. "

: The embedded controller (EC) did not respond within the specified timeout period. This may indicate that there is an error in the EC hardware or firmware or that the BIOS is accessing the EC incorrectly. You should check with your computer manufacturer for an upgraded BIOS. In some situations, this error may cause the computer to function incorrectly."
But it happened an hour and 20 minutes before the shutdown. I notice it only happens when my RAM usage is high. It works entirely fine after I shut it down, and it doesnt happen again until 5-10 days later. 

It first started happening when I was download Forza Horizon 4 to a USB drive. Just randomly froze up. But yeah. Just wondering what I can do! This is all ive got, the only laptop that is supposed to last me a while. Will it be alright?

Thanks

[Jerry_57]

Hi @Krestova,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.

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

The error you found suggests a possible embedded controller (EC), BIOS, or hardware connection issue. Based on HP guidance, try these steps:
 

Update BIOS and drivers first

HP recommends updating to the latest BIOS, firmware, and drivers before troubleshooting, because updates can include fixes for system issues and improve stability. Official HP® Support.

Run HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI)
 

• Restart the laptop
   
• Press Esc, then F2
   
• Run System Tests first, then Component Tests if needed
  
  This helps identify hardware faults outside Windows.

Perform a hard reset

A hard reset may help with:
 

• Windows not responding
   
• freezes
   
• blank display
   
• keyboard not responding
  
  General HP steps include disconnecting peripherals, unplugging AC power, disconnecting/removing the battery if applicable, then holding the power button for at least 15 seconds before reconnecting power.

Reset BIOS to default settings

HP says BIOS default reset can help with boot or abnormal system behavior:
F10 > Main > Restore defaults

Check for loose/internal connections or recent hardware changes

HP notes that freezes and blue screens can be caused by:
 

• loose memory or storage connections
   
• recently added hardware/software
   
• driver conflicts

Try Safe Mode / minimum configuration testing

HP indicates Safe Mode can help identify whether a driver conflict is causing freezes.
 

I hope this will help.
 

Take care and have a good day.