Ubuntu - GPU - Troubleshooting - System crashes when running a GPU intensive process

Check the cables between the PSU and the GPU.

ALERT: Do NOT use splitter cables to power graphic cards.

Even though an 8-pin connector can supposedly handle 150W of power, it may not deliver that to the GPU.

  • It all depends on the overall quality of the power supply in question and the cable being used.
  • The 150W is from the ATX spec for PSUs; which is followed by virtually all consumer desktop hardware; but not all!

A single PCIe 8-pin cable and connectors maximum current rating is 12.5A, which is 150W (+12V x 12.5A); Watts = Volts x Amps.

  • If the wires get too much power, they can melt; or worse, catch fire.
  • The actual power a cable will and can carry depends on quite a bit more.
  • This is why it is usually a bad idea to use splitter cables to power graphic cards.
    • If you have a 400W graphics card, and you are powering it with a splitter; you are sending a whopping 27 Amps down a single set of wires.
    • That is just asking for trouble as you are leaning very heavily on the quality of your PSU.
    • Always use two separate cables whenever possible!!!
      • A splitter cable can still be used, but only make use of one of the ends into each connector of the GPU.

References

GPU Power Cable Guide