Question:

• GPU: RX 6800 XT Reference card
• CPU: Ryzen 5 5600 with stock cooler
• RAM: G.Skill Ripjaws V F4-3600C18D-16GVK
• Motherboard: PRO B550M-VC WIFI
• BIOS Version: 7C95vHA
• PSU: Super Flower Leadex III 750W 80+ Gold
• SSD: WD_BLACK SN770 NVMe 1TB with updated firmware
• Case: Corsair 4000D
• Operating System: Windows 10
• GPU Drivers: Adrenalin 24.1.1
• Chipset Drivers: 6.01.25.342

The

driver timeouts initially appeared on an RX 6750 XT Reference card and continued despite changing to other GPUs, including an RX 6800 XT Reference card and an RX 570. RAM instability was detected and seemingly resolved by adjusting the voltage; however, the timeouts still occur, particularly during intensive tasks like OCCT’s Power test and gaming. GPU undervolting attempts have failed, and fluctuations in GPU clock speeds have been noted. Extensive software troubleshooting has been conducted, including a complete Windows reset, BIOS updates, and various driver installations. Given that the issue has persisted through hardware changes and software fixes, what could be the underlying cause, and what steps would you recommend next?

Answer:

In the realm of high-performance computing, driver timeouts can be a perplexing issue, often leading to significant disruptions during intensive tasks. A case in point involves a desktop equipped with an RX 6800 XT Reference card, Ryzen 5 5600 CPU, and other high-end components, where the user has encountered persistent driver timeouts. These timeouts have manifested across various GPUs, including RX 6750 XT and RX 570 models, and have persisted despite extensive hardware and software troubleshooting.

The recurrent nature of the driver timeouts, especially during stress tests and gaming, suggests a deep-seated problem that is not resolved by standard troubleshooting methods such as voltage adjustments, BIOS updates, or driver reinstallation. The fact that these issues continue to occur even after addressing RAM instability and attempting GPU undervolting points to a potential systemic issue within the hardware configuration or a more complex software incompatibility.

Possible Causes:

1.

Power Supply Instability

: Although the PSU is rated at 750W, it’s possible that transient spikes in power demand during peak loads are not being met, causing the GPU to timeout.

2.

Thermal Throttling

: Inadequate cooling, particularly with the stock CPU cooler, could lead to thermal throttling, affecting the GPU’s performance indirectly.

3.

Motherboard BIOS Bug

: An unresolved bug in the motherboard’s BIOS could be causing instability, especially since BIOS updates have been attempted as a fix.

4.

Driver Incompatibility

: There might be a deeper incompatibility between the GPU drivers and the system’s hardware configuration that hasn’t been addressed by updates or reinstallation.

Recommended Next Steps:

1.

Monitor Power Supply Outputs

: Using a tool to monitor the PSU’s outputs in real-time during stress tests could reveal whether power delivery is consistent.

2.

Enhance Cooling Solutions

: Upgrading the CPU cooler and improving case airflow might help if thermal issues are contributing to the problem.

3.

Consult Motherboard Manufacturer

: Reaching out to the motherboard manufacturer with detailed documentation of the issue might uncover known issues or firmware updates.

4.

Isolate Software Conflicts

: Booting with a minimal set of drivers and software could help identify if there’s a specific conflict causing the timeouts.

In conclusion, while the exact cause of the driver timeouts remains elusive, a systematic approach that includes monitoring power supply stability, improving cooling, consulting with hardware manufacturers, and isolating software conflicts may provide the breakthrough needed to resolve this frustrating issue. It’s a process of elimination that requires patience and meticulous testing, but with perseverance, a solution is often within reach.