A DPC watchdog violation error occurs when a device driver or hardware component fails to respond promptly. This issue usually manifests itself as a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD).
Error messages can be frustrating, but thankfully there are simple fixes available to fix them. Let’s take a look at some of the most frequent causes and their solutions!
1. Disable the BIOS
The BIOS settings on your computer, especially a laptop, can have an immense effect on its performance. Without your knowledge, the BIOS could make changes to system parameters without notification – leading to dpc watchdog violation overclock errors appearing.
One of the most common solutions to this issue is updating your hardware drivers. However, it could not be just the driver causing the dpc watchdog violation overclock; it could also be a software bug in your operating system.
Another solution for this issue is running a program compatibility troubleshooter to determine if the software is responsible for the dpc watchdog overclock. If so, uninstalling and reinstalling should resolve the problem.
2. Change the PSU
A power supply is one of the most critical elements in a PC, providing electricity to all other hardware components like your CPU, graphics card and hard drive.
When selecting a power supply unit (PSU), you should take into account factors like efficiency and wattage limits. Furthermore, look for one with built-in protection features which can keep your system secure during power outages or other emergencies.
The most popular type of PSU is an ATX model, although small form factor (SFF) power supplies are also available. When selecting your power source, make sure it fits inside your case, has all necessary cables to run all hardware, and is efficient enough to handle the wattage demands without overheating or making excessive noise.
A high-quality PSU can last up to five years or longer when properly maintained. If yours has passed that mark, it’s probably time for a replacement with something more reliable.
3. Change the SATA AHCI Controller
The Standard SATA AHCI Controller is the driver responsible for data exchange between your system’s storage devices and memory. If this driver is outdated or corrupted, you may experience a variety of problems.
The SATA AHCI Controller was implemented to increase storage drive speed and provide more advanced capabilities, but it has some drawbacks as well.
Compared to the legacy IDE mode, AHCI provides faster read and write speeds as well as greater compatibility with older hardware.
If your SATA drive is connected to a controller that supports AHCI, switching it to this mode is simple. All you have to do is enter the BIOS and make the change.
DPC watchdog violation overclock can be resolved using this solution, and it also maximizes your hard disk’s potential. AHCI mode helps your computer run up to 20 percent faster while increasing storage capacity by enabling multiple devices to be connected simultaneously to it.
4. Reinstall the Drivers
When a system spends too long at the interrupt request level (IRQL), the CPU can become overwhelmed with system interrupts and may experience blue screen errors like ‘DPC Watchdog Violation’ – otherwise known as BSODs or Blue Screen of Deaths.
Many Windows users have encountered dpc watchdog violation overclock errors due to recent overclocking of their processors. This operation poses a danger, as it not only causes issues with the system but can damage the CPU as well.
In such cases, it is recommended to revert the process and disable overclocking.
To disable C1-E settings in BIOS, open the BIOS settings, navigate to CPU configuration and disable this setting.
Another solution for this error is to upgrade the SSD firmware on your system. The user can search for their model number on a reliable manufacturer website and download the most up-to-date firmware file.
According to what caused the DPC Watchdog Violation error, you may need to perform a system restore. This will undo recent modifications and uninstall applications, drivers or updates installed after the restore point was created.
