Question:

“Why might my PC experience blue screen errors specifically when gaming after installing a new SSD? The issue seems to occur with certain games like ACC, Call of Duty MW3, and occasionally with the ME3 Remake. The most common error message is ‘dcp watchdog violation,’ but I’ve also encountered ‘unexpected kernel trap’ and ‘page fault in nonpaged area.’ These crashes only happen during gaming sessions. My system includes an i7 87000k processor, a 1080ti graphics card, and 32GB of RAM, with Windows running on a Kingston SATA SSD alongside a Seagate 2TB HDD.”

Answer:

Experiencing blue screen errors can be frustrating, especially when they disrupt your gaming sessions. These errors, commonly known as ‘Blue Screen of Death’ (BSOD), can be attributed to various hardware or software issues. Let’s explore why your PC might be encountering these errors after installing a new SSD.

Firstly, ensure that the SSD is compatible with your system. Although most modern SSDs are designed to work with a wide range of hardware, compatibility issues can still arise. Additionally, improper installation of the SSD could lead to physical damage or loose connections, causing system instability.

Driver Conflicts and Updates

Driver issues are a common cause of BSODs. The ‘dcp watchdog violation’ error often points to a problem with the SSD’s firmware or drivers. It’s crucial to have the latest drivers for your SSD, graphics card, and motherboard. Outdated or corrupt drivers can lead to conflicts, especially when rendering graphics-intensive games.

System Configuration and BIOS Settings

Incorrect BIOS settings can also lead to system crashes. After installing a new SSD, it’s advisable to check the BIOS settings to ensure that the drive is correctly configured and recognized by the system.

Software and Game Compatibility

The fact that crashes occur with specific games suggests that there might be compatibility issues between the games and your system’s hardware or software. Check for game patches or updates that address known issues.

System Resources and Overheating

Intensive gaming can strain system resources, leading to overheating. Ensure that your cooling system is adequate and that the PC is not overheating, as this can cause BSODs.

Memory Issues

The ‘page fault in nonpaged area’ error indicates that the system requested data that was not found in memory. This could be due to faulty RAM, so running a memory test might help identify any issues.

Hard Drive Health and Configuration

While your primary focus might be on the new SSD, don’t overlook the health of your other drives. The Seagate 2TB HDD should also be checked for errors, as a failing drive can affect the overall stability of the system.

Conclusion

To address the blue screen errors, start by checking hardware compatibility and ensuring proper installation. Update all drivers and BIOS, monitor system temperatures, and test your RAM. Keep your games and software updated, and regularly check the health of all your storage devices. By methodically troubleshooting each potential cause, you can pinpoint the issue and enjoy a stable gaming experience. Remember, when dealing with persistent BSODs, it’s sometimes best to consult with a professional technician who can provide a more in-depth analysis.