Shut down when playing games

System was working fine before, then couple days ago when playing new vegas the computer shuts down completely, not restarting. Didnt give it much thought, then today when trying black ops pc shuts down within minutes.
Specs: gtx260, e8500, evga 680i board, 700w ocz gamerxstream, 4gb ddr2 800 ram.

Temps for gpu generally under 70 when under load, and cpu temps for both cores 51 max at 100%. Voltages all at stock and nothing is overclocked.
Drivers for gtx are the newest whlq from nvidia.

Was able to run p95 for round 20 min with no problems, then started up black ops or new vegas and within 5 min shutdown again. System is able to be left on overnight for torrents etc without problems. Was thinking of getting a supplemental psu to switch the gtx260 over, but wanted to get more info before putting money down on something that may not work.

 

Hi

Try OCCT, and run the power supply test. See if that shuts 'er down. If so, then you're probably looking at a power issue.

Download link: http://majorgeeks.com/OCCT_d5612.html

EDIT: If the power supply test does shut the computer down, you might consider simply buying a new PSU for the whole computer. Most here will recommend Antec or Corsair power supplies.

 

Also, you can use the below link to calculate the (approximate) power supply wattage you need. However, power supplies are NOT only based on wattage... they are also based on amps, etc.

I and I'm sure others here would be more than happy helping you figure out a good replacement power supply (if indeed that is the culprit), but knowing the wattage results of this calculator will help a lot!

http://extreme.outervision.com/psucalculatorlite.jsp

 

Haha, wow 10 secs is how long i was able to run the occt psu test. Wattage calculator says 496 w recommended. As for a new psu, low on funds right now so under 100 is bout the price range. Was initially looking at just chucking this in:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817101044

and switching the 2 pcie6pins from the gtx on to that and trying to hold on for about a year longer before getting a new system

 

Well, I'd DEFINITELY recommend completely replacing your computer's power supply, and either treading very lightly with it until your new PSU arrives, or not using your computer at all (or very minimally). Definitely wait on the gaming! Power supplies can make or break every circuit in your computer!

Never skimp on power supplies. If you have $100 to spare, either of these power supplies would be a wonderful replacement and likely serve you VERY well far into the future:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139019

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817371015

I'm partial to Corsair... this is my power supply (I know, I know, I spoiled myself):

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139007

EDIT: While a 500W power supply may serve your computer okay, the higher the rated wattage, the less stressed the power supply is = it will last longer. Plus, you have a "buffer", and can possibly upgrade components if you so wish. Plus, the price difference is relatively small for 500W versus 600W quality power supplies.

 

Thanks for the info/suggestions, went with the antech 650w.

 

I'm suffering the same problem too.. Worked fine till a few days ago when I picked up Black Ops, and then the trouble started. CPU & MOBO temps are all moderate, but the vid card actually gets too hot to touch, and then instantly shuts down. No clue....

 

Sorry if it seems I just jumped in to hijack the post, it was the "shuting down while gaming" that caught my eye. I'm sure in my case, the PSU is more than enough to power 2 of my systems with no issue, so it's the overheating vid card that confuses me.