A technician is troubleshooting a desktop workstation that suddenly powers off without any error messages during heavy CPU stress testing. Immediately pressing the power button afterwards yields no response or lights. However, after waiting several minutes, the workstation powers on normally, only to power off again when high processing loads are applied. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this behavior?
- The CPU thermal protection feature is initiating a thermal shutdown due to inadequate cooling or thermal paste failure.Answer
- BThe system RAM modules are installed in adjacent slots rather than alternating slots required for dual-channel operation.
- CThe power supply wattage was undercalculated based strictly on thermal design power without accounting for peak draw margins.
- DThe operating system bootloader is corrupted and requires immediate startup repair and system file reinstallation.
Answer
The CPU thermal protection feature is initiating a thermal shutdown due to inadequate cooling or thermal paste failure.
Modern CPUs include integrated thermal sensors that trigger an immediate hard shutdown when operating temperatures exceed maximum thresholds. If the thermal compound has dried out or the CPU cooler fan has failed, high CPU load quickly pushes temperatures beyond critical limits. The mandatory delay before the system will turn back on is characteristic of thermal sensors resetting once the CPU heatsink dissipates enough ambient heat.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
CPU Thermal Throttling and Automatic Thermal Cutoff Shutdowns
Estimated Time:1m 15s