Received a new gaming laptop this Christmas, a Predator PHN16-72, but it’s been nothing but trouble. The issues range from better performance when unplugged to the dreaded blue screen of death and other glitched screens. Any advice on what might be causing these issues?
Sounds like a dead Graphics processing unit
Indie said:
Sounds like a dead Graphics processing unit
Absolutely agree
Seems typical for an Acer product
If it’s brand new, returning it for a replacement might be your best bet. New laptops shouldn’t have these issues.
Dead gpu is a common issue
Onyx said:
Dead gpu is a common issue
What do you mean by ‘common’?
Onyx said:
Dead gpu is a common issue
What do you mean by ‘common’?
Problems like these are often caused by the gpu.
If you’re still within the return period, I suggest you return it as it appears the GPU is faulty.
@Jess
A faulty screen connector typically doesn’t cause block artifacts. Based on my 15+ years of experience, HDMI and DisplayPort issues usually result in static or lines, while VGA might shift colors or ghost. The blocks you’re seeing could indicate GPU, VRAM problems, or, though rare, issues with the display driver board.
It got the Christmas spirit at least
Could it be a broken gpu?
Try updating the Intel driver using the Intel Driver Support Assistant and select the clean install option. I have the same model but PHN16-71 and it helped.
It sounds like some of the MOSFETs have failed, causing GPU issues. My laptop used to crash under similar conditions and now can only handle low settings for gaming.
Can you share the specs of your laptop?
Harlow said:
Can you share the specs of your laptop?
Processor: Intel(R) Core™ i9-14900HX at 2.20 GHz, Installed RAM: 64.0 GB, System type: 64-bit operating system, x64-based processor, GPU: Nvidia Geforce RTX 4060 laptop GPU.
@Max
That’s an impressive spec list, especially the 4060 GPU. It might be an electronic issue on the motherboard, the GPU, the LCD cable, or potentially just driver issues. If possible, activate the warranty or return it during the refund period.
@Sloane
That configuration is common for laptops aiming to balance performance and portability.
@Sloane
Manufacturers often pair high-tier CPUs with their laptops to justify a higher price, even though a more moderate processor would usually suffice for most users.
@Max
The CPU seems overpowered, but the GPU or its related components like VRAM seem to be malfunctioning severely.