AMD FX 8150 w/ Gigabyte ga-970a-d3 = Freezing under load in games and prime95. Not a temp issue. - Page 3

k guys... xd with a diagnosis here.  The problem is the RAM PSU motherboard CPU actually why did I cross out motherboard, it is that.... and the CPU too, come to think of it.  This may be an issue of lack of VRM system capacity.

I'm curious as to whether the freezing is the new VRM protection feature of GA-970A-D3's F9 BIOS in action.  In any case, it's a good thing; if this feature weren't activating, your system would pretty much be at risk of catching fire.  (Read: About VRMs & MOSFETs, in my sig)

There are a lot of things to blame for the lack of capacity and why your motherboard VRM system is not pushing this setup properly.  One to begin with is the low phase count (4+1).  FX-81XX are extremely power intensive (and I don't use the bold and underlines humbly) and I could almost say need a 6+2-8+2 phase for most reliable operation.  As well, you run a CM Hyper 212+, which effectively removes all VRM cooling.  No heat is being moved.  This stresses your VRM setup to the point where it may be hitting both the heat threshold as well as the capacity threshold (VRM capacity lowers with more heat)

It seems to make sense as the CPU is at stock clocks (i.e. there should be no instability, the board properly supports the 8150) and everything is only happening with a very intensive system load.

Unless you have a Rev 1.3 970A-D3 (VRM heatsink installed) I would seriously recommend getting a different board for your 8150.  You may be able to solve the problem by simply ensuring those VRMs are cooled (replace the stock cooler?) but don't push the clocks or voltage.  If you are going to be going through frequent intensive (i.e. all 8 cores used) gaming or video editing or whatever intensive task, I recommend a new board with a larger VRM system for lower board heat levels, higher reliability and higher lifetime.

Regards, the GA-990XA/970A series owners' club manager