Laptop dGPU stuck at 210Mhz and 752w power draw

[dnicoara3]

Hello!

I purchased an ASUS laptop, specifically the G733QS, about two years ago, and I've encountered a fairly common issue that seems to have few solutions. The dGPU clock frequency is stuck at 210MHz, regardless of the load, which negatively impacts gaming performance. Additionally, the power draw reaches 752W, which is impossible. The laptop doesn't overheat, and otherwise, it functions within normal parameters.

I took it to an authorized ASUS service center for diagnosis and possible repair. They informed me that the dGPU is likely on the verge of failure, which explains this "behavior." Their only solution was to replace the motherboard, based on a diagnosis that only involved software checks: reinstalling the OS, updating the BIOS/VBIOS and drivers to the latest versions, and running a benchmark with the free version of "Unigine Heaven."

Unfortunately, the laptop's warranty has expired, so I can't use the RMA option anymore.

 

[ty_ger]

Replace the motherboard or have the motherboard repaired.

 

[Caring1]

Power circuit for the dGPU is faulty and reporting high power usage, which in turn causes the core to down clock in an attempt to save power.
As mentioned, repair or replace the motherboard is the only option.

 

[Dr. Dro]

I agree, this seems to be a power shunt failure. Unless you have access to technicians who have the know-how to analyze a laptop board and figure out which component (likely a resistor) that blew open, replacing the mainboard is probably your best option at this point in time. Fortunately, it tends to not be as expensive as the whole computer as most that are available have been pulled from systems that suffered other types of damage and ended sacrificed (like broken panel or something), you may be able to keep the repair cost down somewhat if you look for the same board type on your marketplace of choice

 

[LabRat 891]

If it was a desktop GPU, I'd say re-flash factory vBIOS before scrapping/repairing the card.
In your pos., I'd feel obliged to attempt a nuclear hail Mary Windows reformat+reinstall w/ fresh up-to-date drivers before 'calling it quits'
edit: sounds like Asus did/had you do all of that, already. Assuming they did actually do those steps: Not bad diagnostics or advice, given Asus' recent reputation (esp. for an out-of-warranty laptop)

Otherwise, I agree w/ the other replies: board-level repair/replacement needed.


Unfortunately, it looks like replacement mobo would be over $500.
Though, you're not likely equivalently replacing the whole laptop for less than double that.

I'm not aware of anywhere 'trusted' to do board-level repair, either.
I do know of 1 or 2 YouTube personalities that maybe I'd try contacting about it 'for the lulz'. -but, YouTube's a top3worst source for 'trusted' anything.

Edit 2: If repair/replacement is not possible, you can config the BIOS/UEFI to disable the dGPU.
Vega8 on the 5900HX isn't good, but at least it's not Intel HD graphics.

 

[dnicoara3]

I agree, this seems to be a power shunt failure. Unless you have access to technicians who have the know-how to analyze a laptop board and figure out which component (likely a resistor) that blew open, replacing the mainboard is probably your best option at this point in time. Fortunately, it tends to not be as expensive as the whole computer as most that are available have been pulled from systems that suffered other types of damage and ended sacrificed (like broken panel or something), you may be able to keep the repair cost down somewhat if you look for the same board type on your marketplace of choice

I reached out to some technicians, and it seems the issue is likely due to one of two things since it's not software-related: either the MOSFET, the power supply, or both. I'll be taking it to the shop on Monday and will keep you updated.

 

[dnicoara3]

If it was a desktop GPU, I'd say re-flash factory vBIOS before scrapping/repairing the card.
In your pos., I'd feel obliged to attempt a nuclear hail Mary Windows reformat+reinstall w/ fresh up-to-date drivers before 'calling it quits'
edit: sounds like Asus did/had you do all of that, already. Assuming they did actually do those steps: Not bad diagnostics or advice, given Asus' recent reputation (esp. for an out-of-warranty laptop)

Otherwise, I agree w/ the other replies: board-level repair/replacement needed.


Unfortunately, it looks like replacement mobo would be over $500.
Though, you're not likely equivalently replacing the whole laptop for less than double that.

I'm not aware of anywhere 'trusted' to do board-level repair, either.
I do know of 1 or 2 YouTube personalities that maybe I'd try contacting about it 'for the lulz'. -but, YouTube's a top3worst source for 'trusted' anything.

Edit 2: If repair/replacement is not possible, you can config the BIOS/UEFI to disable the dGPU.
Vega8 on the 5900HX isn't good, but at least it's not Intel HD graphics.

A new certified ASUS motherboard for this laptop would cost me about three-quarters of its value, which isn’t worth it. Most sellers only offer a 90 to 180-day warranty anyway. So, I’ve decided to go with repairing the motherboard instead. While it’s not a guaranteed fix, it’s worth a try.

 

[Apocalypsee]

I reached out to some technicians, and it seems the issue is likely due to one of two things since it's not software-related: either the MOSFET, the power supply, or both. I'll be taking it to the shop on Monday and will keep you updated.

Hope you'll get it fixed soon! The only time I get such problem is when I loaded the VBIOS with the wrong ones, yes I mean the laptop GPU VBIOS, I'm trying to flash with the higher TDP ones. Gives absurd power draw rating even at idle making it run at idle clock. I don't think it such to be the case for you.

 

[dnicoara3]

Hope you'll get it fixed soon! The only time I get such problem is when I loaded the VBIOS with the wrong ones, yes I mean the laptop GPU VBIOS, I'm trying to flash with the higher TDP ones. Gives absurd power draw rating even at idle making it run at idle clock. I don't think it such to be the case for you.

Thanks a lot, buddy! Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Hopefully, I can get it fixed with little to no hassle.