Radeon RX 7800 XT                                                 GeForce RTX 3090

Rated: 8/10                                                             Rated: 9/10

Pros & Cons

GPU	Pros	Cons
RTX 3090	Great Ray Tracing Skills Excellent 4K gaming performance	High Power Consumption High Price
RX 7800 XT	Fantastic performance in budget Effective cooling system	Lags in ray tracing and upscaling A bit high power draw

Key Takeaways

• In my hands-on testing of the RTX 3090 and the RX 7800 XT, I found that the RTX 3090 leads performance by about 8.5% during 4K games.
• The RX 7800 XT is about 25% more power efficient. Meanwhile, the RX 7800 XT proved a 20.0% advantage in thermal efficiency.
• As of December 2023, the RX 7800 XT is currently being retailed for a price of $530, while the RTX 3090 comes at a slightly higher price tag of $1229.
• The RTX 3090 excels for users seeking absolute gaming power, while the RX 7800 XT is a budget-friendly option, delivering strong performance.

Specifications Sheet

Architectural Difference

• Architecture: The RTX 3090 features Nvidia Ampere architecture, while the RX 7800 XT boosts AMD’s latest RDNA 3.0 architecture with the latest upgrades.
• GPU Chip: We get AMD’s leading Navi 32 chip with the RTX 7800 XT, manufactured using a 5nm node at TSMC. In contrast, the RTX 3090 incorporates the GA102 chip fabricated at an 8nm Samsung node.
• Clock Speed: The RTX 3090 boosts a 100 MHz faster base clock than the RX 7800 XT. However, the RX 7800 XT has a 43.3% higher boost clock because of its advanced architecture.
• VRAM: Regarding the GPU memory, the RTX 3090 provides an 8GB extra VRAM with a larger 384-bit data bus. Additionally, the RTX 3090 has a 50% greater memory bandwidth than the RX 7800 XT.
• Advanced Technologies: Nvidia offered DLSS 2.0 with the RTX 3090. In contrast, the RX 7800 XT presents an advanced version of AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution, the FSR 3. For more details, read Nvidia DLSS Vs AMD FSR.

When I compared the capabilities of the RX 7800 XT with the RTX 4070, the RX 7800 XT was the champ at the end. This article will replace the RTX 4070 with a top-tier 3rd generation Nvidia GPU, the RTX 3090. So, let’s weigh up the RX 7800 XT vs RTX 3090 to determine which GPUs possess superior capabilities.

Gaming Benchmarks – 4K

After thoroughly examining the technical details and architectural differences between the RX 7800 XT vs RTX 3090, let’s focus on how well they perform in challenging games. I played ten taxing games at 4K resolution to check out the performance of these graphics cards. My test system had the following specifications.

Gaming Rig

• OS: Windows 11
• CPU: Intel Core i9-13900K
• Motherboard: ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi 6E
• GPU 1: SAPPHIRE NITRO+ Radeon RX 7800 XT 16GB
• GPU 2: ASUS TUF Gaming GeForce RTX 3090 TUF 24GB
• RAM: XPG Lancer RGB 32GB 7200MT/s DDR5
• SSD: XPG GAMMIX S70 BLADE 2TB NVMe
• CPU Cooler: Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420 – AIO Water Cooler
• PSU: ENERMAX REVOLUTION D.F. X 1050W

Cyberpunk 2077

• The first game I played to check the performance of the two GPUs was Cyberpunk 2077, where the RTX 3090 produced 35 FPS on average and defeated the RX 7800 XT’s 31 FPS by 12.9%.
• Regarding the low 1% frame rates, the RTX 3090 mustered up 28 FPS, while the RX 7800 XT yielded 25 FPS.

Forza Horizon 5

• While playing Forza Horizon 5, the RX 7800 XT led the performance by producing 97 FPS. In contrast, the RTX 3090 only produced 93 FPS, 4.3% behind the RX 7800 XT.
• Both GPUs follow the same trend at low 1%. The RX 7800 XT produced 85 FPS at low 1%, while the RTX 3090 delivered 79 FPS.

Hogwarts Legacy

• When I played Hogwarts Legacy at 4K, the RTX 3090 again led with its average frame rate of 57 FPS and surpassed the RX 7800 XT’s 51 FPS by 11.8%.
• Coming to the low 1% performance, the RX 7800 XT only produced 42 FPS in this game, whereas the RTX 3090 made 48 FPS.

Horizon Zero Dawn

• In the next title, Horizon Zero Dawn, the RX 7800 XT lagged behind the RTX 3090 by 19.2%. On average, the RTX 3090 delivered an excellent 87 FPS, while the RX 7800 XT generated 73 FPS.
• The RTX 3090 mustered a beautiful 76 FPS at the low 1%, higher than the RX 7800 XT’s average frame rate. In contrast, the RX 7800 XT provided 66 FPS at its low 1% performance.

Red Dead Redemption 2

• During RDR2 gameplay, the RTX 3090 outperformed the RX 7800 XT, with an average 62 FPS compared to the RX 7800 XT’s 59 FPS, a 5.1% performance difference.
• Regarding the low 1% performance, I observed that the RX 7800 XT achieved 52 FPS at low 1%, whereas the RTX 3090 delivered a one FPS higher 53 FPS.

Remnant 2

• When testing Remnant 2, the RTX 3090 surpassed the RX 7800 XT, averaging 41 FPS compared to the RX 7800 XT’s 39 FPS, indicating a 5.1% performance gap.
• In my assessment, the RTX 3090 achieved 32 FPS at the worst 1% performance, outperforming the RX 7800 XT’s 29 FPS by 10.3%.

Resident Evil 4

• During gameplay of Resident Evil 4, the RTX 3090 outperformed the RX 7800 XT, averaging 75 FPS against the RX 7800 XT’s 65 frames per second, implying a 10.3% performance difference.
• In the low 1% performance analysis, the RTX 3090 achieved 64 FPS, outperforming the RX 7800 XT, which recorded only 44 FPS.

Starfield

• While I was playing Starfield at 4K, the RX 7800 XT outperformed the RTX 3090 by 10.0% with an average frame rate of 44 FPS against the RTX 3090’s 40 FPS average.
• In my low 1% performance analysis of this gaming session, the RTX 3090 achieved 33 FPS, whereas the RX 7800 XT managed 39 FPS.

The Last of Us Part I

• In testing of The Last of Us Part I, I noticed the RTX 3090 outperforming the RX 7800 XT, achieving a superior 61 FPS average at 4K, surpassing the latter’s 49 FPS by 24.5%.
• When comparing the low 1% performance, I noted that the RTX 3090 made 51 FPS in this game, while the RX 7800 XT only managed 44 FPS.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

• While playing The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, the RTX 3090 surpassed the RX 7800 XT’s 34 FPS average frame rate by 11.8% with its superb 38 FPS average at 4K.
• Per my analysis of the low 1% performance, the RTX 3090 produced 25 FPS during this gameplay, whereas the RX 7800 XT only made 22 FPS.

Editor`s Note

Deciding between the RX 7800 XT and RTX 3090? If unlimited gaming power is your goal, the GeForce RTX 3090 is unmatched with top-tier specs. But, for strong performance on a budget, the Radeon RX 7800 XT shines, offering impressive power and 25% greater efficiency, making it a cost-effective choice with cutting-edge features. You can also check more about the performance of the RX 7800 XT in another detailed review of ours.

– Uzair Qureshi

Overall Gaming Performance

Average FPS

After carefully reviewing my benchmark data, it became evident that the RTX 3090 is triumphant in gaming performance, showcasing an impressive average of 58.9 FPS. This beat its rival, the RX 7800 XT, which, although impressive, only managed an average of 54.3 FPS.

In head-to-head performance, the RX 7800 XT showcases its prowess by surpassing the RTX 3090 in Forza Horizon 5 and Starfield. However, concerning the overall performance measured in average frame rate, the RTX 3090 outperforms the RX 7800 XT by 8.5%.

Low 1% FPS

Analyzing the worst 1% performance metrics, the RTX 3090 demonstrated an impressive average of 48.9 FPS, surpassing the RX 7800 XT’s 44.8 FPS. In this context of minimal performance, the RTX 3090 outpaces the RX 7800 XT by a margin of 9.2%.

Winner: NVIDIA's GeForce RTX 3090

Gaming Power Consumption

In light of the critical role that graphics card power consumption plays in overall system performance, it is necessary to compare the power usage of the RX 7800 XT vs RTX 3090 in 4K gaming.

Regarding power use during 4K gaming, our table showcases the RX 7800 XT is a winner, needing 25% less power than the RTX 3090. When we look at performance for each power unit, the RX 7800 XT gives 15% better results than the RTX 3090. So, the RX 7800 XT stands out for being efficient and powerful in gaming.

Gaming Temperatures

During intense gaming sessions, graphics cards may experience overheating issues. Therefore, discussing their optimal temperature management is crucial to ensure peak performance and longevity. 

Regarding keeping cool during gaming, our results throne the RX 7800 XT as the winner because it excels in maintaining a cooler average temperature compared to the RTX 3090. Overall, the RX 7800 XT has a 20.0% advantage in thermal efficiency.

Price And Value

Graphics Card	MSRP	Current Price
Radeon RX 7800 XT	499	530
GeForce RTX 3090	1499	1229
Price Difference	󠀥󠀥󠀥%100.1	%79.4

The table indicates a slight increase for the RX 7800 XT and a notable decrease for the RTX 3090, making it a potentially more cost-effective choice for consumers. Regarding availability, both graphics cards are readily available through reputable online merchants, including Newegg and Amazon.

Which One Would I Recommend?

RTX 3090: If you desire a GPU with unparalleled gaming performance without budget constraints, I highly recommend the RTX 3090 – a powerhouse that promises the ultimate gaming experience.

RX 7800 XT: For those seeking enhanced GPU performance on a budget without compromising operational efficiency, I highly recommend the RX 7800 XT. It delivers exceptional power within a constrained budget and ensures lower ongoing operating costs.

So, considering the RX 7800 XT vs RTX 3090 decision, it should align with your individual requirements and preferences as the determining factor.

More From RX 7800 XT:

• RX 7800 XT Vs RTX 4070
• RX 7800 XT Vs RTX 3080
• RX 7800 XT Vs RTX 4080

More From RX RTX 3090:

• RTX 4070 Ti Vs RTX 3090
• RTX 3090 Ti Vs RTX 3090
• RTX 3080 Vs RTX 3090

Uzair Qureshi

[Comparisons Specialist]

I’m a passionate computer hardware expert specializing in CPUs and GPUs. With a lifelong curiosity for hardware and extensive hands-on experience, I provide valuable insights, practical advice, and in-depth analysis on these components. Engaging with the hardware community, I exchange knowledge and stay at the forefront of technological advancements.

Get In Touch: uzair@tech4gamers.com

RX 7800 XT Vs RTX 3090: Gaming, Price & Overall is a post from Tech4Gamers - All About Technology And Gaming News

With the new 14th-gen processors on the horizon, older Intel processors are falling fast in price, making them a viable option for gamers on a budget. The decision between the Core i5-13600K vs i5-12600K might be one that might confuse a lot of consumers. Not to worry, as our comparison of these two chips will give you all the necessary information to make your purchasing decision!

Key Takeaways

• Our testing of the 13600K showed a 16% advantage in average framerate, making the 12600K look sluggish in comparison.
• The difference in power consumption was higher between the two chips, but it was justified as it scaled linearly with the increase in performance.
• There is an $80 difference in price between these two processors as of the time of writing this article.

Comparison Table

Architectural Differences

1. Core Count: The i5-13600K brought some worthwhile improvement into this family of processors by using 8 efficiency cores over the 4 efficiency cores that the 12600K used. Both processors, however, use 6 performance cores. This brings the thread count up to 20 threads for the 13600K, while the 12600K has only 16 threads.
2. Frequency: The 13600K can clock anywhere from 2.6GHz to 5.1GHz, while the 12600K is slightly behind on both metrics, with a frequency range of 2.8GHz to 4.9GHz.
3. Cache: The Core i5-13600K has an L3 cache of 24MB, whereas the Core i5-12600K has a cache size of 20 MB. The higher cache of the 13600K should help it a lot in gaming scenarios.
4. TDP: The newer chip has a max boost TDP of 181 watts, whereas the 12600K has a max TDP of 150 watts.

i5-13600K Vs i5-12600K – Gaming Benchmarks 

In this section, we’ll be comparing the performances of the Intel Core i5 13600k vs Intel Core i5 12600k in 9 games. We’ll be discussing the power, temperatures, and of course, the differences in FPS of both CPUs to find just how much of a performance boost we got with the 13th gen compared to the last gen. 

Test PC 

• CPU: INTEL CORE I5 13600K / INTEL CORE I5 12600K  
• Motherboard: ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus  
• GPU: MSI RTX 4090 Suprim X  
• RAM: G.Skill Trident Z5 2x16GB, 6000 CL36-36-36-96  
• CPU Cooler: Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360  
• Case: Streacom BC1 Open Benchtable 

Cyberpunk 2077

• In the first game of our testing, Cyberpunk 2077 ran with an average framerate of 111 FPS on the 12600K, while the 13600K was around 12% faster with an average framerate of around 125 FPS.
• 1% lows were around 83 FPS on the older chip, whereas the 13600K only dipped down to 100 FPS during our tests.

Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord

• Our test of this game ran with an average framerate of 206 FPS on the 12600K, while the 13600K ran significantly faster with an average framerate of 246 FPS. This converts to a 17% advantage for the 13th gen processor.
• 1% lows were once again very far apart, with the 13600K dipping down to a minimum of 131 FPS, while the 12600K goes down to around 104 FPS.

Forza Horizon 5

• Forza Horizon 5 ran around 13% better on the 13600K with an average framerate of 253 FPS, while the 12600K averaged a framerate of 222 FPS in our short benchmark.
• The 1% lows were not worlds apart between these two processors in this game. The 13600K dipped to around 181 FPS, whereas the 12600K went down to around a minimum of 168 FPS.

Far Cry 6

• On average, our test of Far Cry 6 had the 13600K producing an average framerate of 123 FPS, while the Core i5-12600K had a framerate closer to 103 FPS. This difference is around 17% in favor of the 13600K.
• The 1% lows were around 81 FPS for the 12600K, whereas the 13600K was significantly smoother with a minimum framerate closer to 103 FPS.

Call of Duty: Warzone

• Once again, we saw a 17% difference in performance between the 12600K and 13600K, with the former achieving an average framerate of 179 FPS, while the latter had a framerate closer to around 210 FPS.
• The 1% lows were all over the place in this game, with 12600K hovering around a minimum of around 95 FPS, while the 13600K was also much smoother in this regard, with minimums closer to 140 FPS.

Microsoft Flight Simulator

• The 13600K had an average framerate of 74 FPS in our test of MS Flight Sim 2020, while the 12600K averaged closer to 64 FPS. This marks another 14% advantage for the newer chip.
• The 1% lows were very choppy on both processors, with the 12600K going down to around 31 FPS, whereas the 13600K was barely smoother, with a minimum of 36 FPS.

Marvel’s Spiderman Remastered

• The 12600K had an average framerate of 108 FPS in our test of Spiderman Remastered, which was around 10% lower than the 119 FPS average that we saw from the 13600K.
• As for the 1% lows, the 12600K went down to around 87 FPS during our testing, whereas the 13600K stayed closer to 95 FPS at its lowest points.

Overall Gaming Performance

There was a very measurable difference between the overall gaming performance of the Core i5-13600K vs Core i5-12600K in our tests. The average of the 12600K in terms of average framerates was around 142 FPS, which was around 16% higher than the 164 FPS average of the 13600K. The extra cores of the newer chip go a long way in providing a higher framerate than the 12600K. 

As for the 1% lows, the 12600K had a framerate of around 93 FPS in the games we tested, while the 13600K had lows of around 112 FPS. This drastically impacted the smoothness of gameplay on the 12600K, making the 13600K feel a lot smoother in comparison. 

The performance of the 13600K was leaps and bounds ahead of that of the 12600K, making the newer chip a great generational improvement. The performance was excellent all around, especially for a mid-range processor.

Power Consumption

The power consumption was quite different between the two processors in our testing. The 13600K had an average power consumption of around 98 watts, whereas the 12600K consumed around 83 watts on average. This compounds to a difference of around 18%.

The 13600K is just as power efficient as the 12600K because it matches its increased power consumption more or less linearly with its increase in performance, which makes us think that the extra power it takes is justified. Still, implementing smaller processing nodes would have been nicer to see efficiency improvements with the new processor.

Price And Availability

When writing this video, the i5 13600K is readily available for $300 on the new market, whereas the 12600K can be had new for around $220. A relatively large price gap between the two processors indicates both target different market segments.

Both processors should be readily available across the world in retail stores, along with the second-hand market.

What We Recommend 

The data we’ve accumulated in our testing of these processors so far has given us enough information to crown a victor when it comes to comparing the Core i5-13600K vs Core i5-12600K.

The performance of the 13600K cannot be matched by its older sibling. It had a substantial 16% lead over the 12600K in the average framerates of the games we tested, while the difference in 1% lows was even larger. This urges us to recommend the 13600K to anyone with the budget.

There is still a case to be made for the 12600K for its stellar price. You can get this chip for very cheap, which allows you to set up your PC for the time being while also keeping your upgrade path very open.

In conclusion, people looking for the best performance should go with the 13600K if they can afford it, while anyone looking for a budget option with a long upgrade path should go for the 12600K.

Pros And Cons

More From Core i5-13600K

• Core i5-14600K Vs Core i5-13600K
• Ryzen 5 5600X3D Vs i5 13600K
• Intel i5-13600K Vs i9 12900K

More From Core i5-12600K

• Core i5-12600k Vs Ryzen 7 5800x
• Ryzen 5 7600X vs i5-12600K
• i7-11700K Vs i5-12600K 

Uzair Qureshi

[Comparisons Specialist]

I’m a passionate computer hardware expert specializing in CPUs and GPUs. With a lifelong curiosity for hardware and extensive hands-on experience, I provide valuable insights, practical advice, and in-depth analysis on these components. Engaging with the hardware community, I exchange knowledge and stay at the forefront of technological advancements.

Get In Touch: uzair@tech4gamers.com

Core i5-13600k Vs i5-12600K [We Tested 7 Games] is a post from Tech4Gamers - All About Technology And Gaming News

When my PC’s storage is almost full, or if it’s infected with malware that refuses to go away, I often turn to the ultimate solution: resetting Windows. But just how long does it take to reset a PC? Many factors influence the duration, such as the amount of storage, the status of the OS, and more.

Key Takeaways

• The duration of a PC reset depends on the chosen method and the computer’s specifications. Simple resets can take 30 minutes to a few hours, while more comprehensive ones may take several hours.
• Many factors are responsible for increasing the duration, such as software glitches, overheating, hardware problems, and malware.
• Back up important data to an external drive or the cloud before resetting so you won’t lose essential files.

Based on several factors, PC reset times can vary from 30 minutes to 3 hours. These include your storage device, the volume of data, and the files you wish to preserve. In some cases, particularly on sluggish computers, a reset can extend to an entire day.

There are two ways to reset a Windows PC to remove corrupt data or persistent bugs. You can either choose Keep My Files or Remove Everything.  When I chose to keep my data and files, the process took about 30 to 45 minutes.

On the other hand, if you go with removing everything, it may take anywhere from 2.5 to 3 hours for a complete reset. This is because the PC takes time to clean all the files and data on the hard drive.

Factors Affecting PC Reset Duration

Numerous factors affect the time it takes to reset a PC:

• CPU Speed: A faster processor can handle data processing tasks more quickly.
• RAM Size: Sufficient RAM allows for smoother multitasking and data handling during reset.
• HDD vs SSD: Solid-state drives (SSDs) generally offer faster read and write speeds than traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). Upgrading to an SSD can significantly reduce reset times.
• Amount Of Data: The total amount of data on the computer affects the time it takes to reset. If there’s a large amount of data to be processed, the reset will take longer.
• Condition Of Operating System: The overall health and condition of the existing operating system can influence the reset time. A system with many errors or corruption may take longer to reset.

Taking proactive measures, such as ensuring software compatibility and monitoring system health, helps me minimize the need for frequent resets, which allows computer stability and longevity. In addition, I always back up my critical data to an external USB drive before a reset to be on the safe side; hence, I suggest you do the same.

• How To Clear PC Cache? 
• How To Change IP Address?
• How To Remove Malware And Viruses From PC?

Abdul Hadi

[How To’s & Guides Editor]

Haddi has been in the Gaming and tech Space for over 10 Years Now; he has worked on notable websites like eXputer, Gamepur, Gear Siege, Gearnuke, and plenty more. He is an expert at Games & PC Hardware; you can expect him to solve any problem. People often joke, that if there is any problem anyone can solve, Haddi can solve it faster. Currently, Haddi writes and manages a Team of Experts at Tech4Gamers.

Contact: Haddi@tech4gamers.com

How Long Does it Take To Reset A PC? [SOLVED] is a post from Tech4Gamers - All About Technology And Gaming News

An AIO cooler is a liquid cooler that helps you stabilize your CPU temperature by relying on liquid solutions. It uses a closed-loop system to pump water or any other fluid to cool your CPU block. However, just like any other component, it gets old as well. Therefore, find out how long an AIO cooler lasts so you can replace it timely.

Key Takeaways

• AIO coolers can last up to 7 to 10 years if used with care.
• Maintaining your AIO cooler and monitoring its performance is important for longevity.
• Replace the AIO cooler if you see air bubbles or leakage.

An AIO cooler typically has a lifespan of about 5 to 7 years, with some lasting up to 10 years, depending on build quality and maintenance. Leading brands like Corsair and Cooler Master offer 3 to 5 years warranties for their liquid AIOs.

Brand Verifications

Mentioned below are the warranties of some of the well-known AIO series:

• Corsair Hydro Series: 5 years.
• Corsair Hydro X Series Core (blocks, pumps, and radiators): 3 years.
• NZXT Kraken Z Series: 6 years.
• NZXT Kraken X Series: 6 years.
• Cooler Master’s Master Liquid PL Series: 5 years.

Factors Affecting Its Lifespan

AIO coolers usually last longer than any other custom liquid cooling solution. However, certain factors may decrease their lifespan.

Installation Problems

The most common mistake users make while installing an AIO is placing the tubing beneath the cooling block and radiator, which leads to bubbling noises and poor rotation of the liquid. It causes massive cooling problems and decreases the cooler’s lifespan.

The pump should always be beneath the radiator, not even on the same level, as it ensures the proper flow of the liquid. 

Pump Failure

Often, by default, this type of CPU cooler is filled with up to 90 percent of its total design capacity. This means that 10 percent of the space is reserved empty. In rare cases, tiny air bubbles can build up in this space, which merge to create bigger bubbles. It occupies the unused space and blocks the outgoing tank.

Luckily, some AIOs offer an extreme mode in their software to remove bubbles, or you can physically bleed the system to let air out if you hear bubbling sounds. This prevents pump issues.

Corrosion

While testing the best 280mm AIO coolers, the reviewer found that most AIO coolers’ radiators, including their fins, are made of copper or aluminum. The thermal performance of copper is better than that of aluminum while lasting much longer because of its resilience and ability to degrade at a lower rate.

Copper fins in cooling systems are generally more durable and corrosion-resistant than aluminum fins. Plus, when combined with cheaper welding flux and low-quality coolant, the latter can create a highly oxidizing mixture. This oxidizing nature can contribute to the deterioration of tubing over time.

Extend The Lifespan Of An AIO Cooler

Here are a few pointers I use to extend the lifespan of my AIO Cooler:

• Ensure that it is mounted correctly in the direction suggested by the manufacturer.
• The pump should always be underneath the radiator, and the tubing should remain beneath both.
• Perform regular maintenance.
• Prevent dust buildup around the radiator and fans. Although, follow this guide if your AIO CPU fan is not working.
• Monitor system thermals to confirm proper cooler performance.

Personally, I use Task Manager to monitor the real-time temperature and performance of my AIO cooler. If the fan noise gets noticeably loud, I recommend cleaning it at the earliest. This can be because there’s dust in your radiator or because your cooler is struggling to keep your CPU at ideal temperatures. 

More Related To AIO Coolers:

• AIO vs Custom Loop Liquid Cooling
• AIO Vs Air Cooler: Which One Is Better?

Ali Rashid Khan

[Wiki Editor]

Ali Rashid Khan is an avid gamer, hardware enthusiast, photographer, and devoted litterateur with a period of experience spanning more than 14 years. Sporting a specialization with regards to the latest tech in flagship phones, gaming laptops, and top-of-the-line PCs, Ali is known for consistently presenting the most detailed objective perspective on all types of gaming products, ranging from the Best Motherboards, CPU Coolers, RAM kits, GPUs, and PSUs amongst numerous other peripherals. When he’s not busy writing, you’ll find Ali meddling with mechanical keyboards, indulging in vehicular racing, or professionally competing worldwide with fellow mind-sport athletes in Scrabble at an international level. Currently speaking, Ali has completed his A-Level GCEs with plans to go into either Allopathic Medicine or Business Studies, or who knows, perhaps a full-time dedicated technological journalist.

Get In Touch: alirashid@tech4gamers.com

Answered: How Long Does An AIO Liquid Cooler Last? is a post from Tech4Gamers - All About Technology And Gaming News

Key Takeaways

• Scaling means adjusting the size and quality of an image to fit a specific display or output device.
• You can choose between Aspect Ratio, Full Screen, Custom, and No Scaling options.
• Remember that it can affect the image or video quality, causing them to appear blurred or distorted.

GPU Scaling

Modern GPUs have powerful engines that can perform scaling operations quickly and efficiently. GPU scaling is used when the display’s resolution does not match the content’s resolution.

For example, if a 1080p video is played on a 4K display, the image will appear smaller than the screen’s full size. It can adjust the video size to fit the screen’s full size, preserving the aspect ratio and avoiding distortion.

Upscaling

Upscaling is often used when displaying older content or content designed for lower-resolution displays on modern high-resolution displays by increasing the resolution of an image or content to match that of a higher-resolution display.

The GPU adds pixels to the image and employs interpolation algorithms to estimate the color values of the new pixels. For example, when playing a DVD movie on a 4K TV, the GPU will upscale the DVD’s 480p resolution to fit the 4K display’s 2160p resolution.

Downscaling

Downscaling displays high-resolution content on lower-resolution displays, like connecting a high-end gaming PC to a lower-resolution monitor by decreasing the resolution of an image or content to fit a lower-resolution display. The GPU achieves this by removing pixels from the image and using interpolation algorithms to estimate the color values of the remaining pixels. 

Performing GPU Scaling

Know the purpose of different settings:

• Aspect Ratio Scaling: Preserves the original aspect ratio of an image, preventing stretching or compression. If the image’s aspect ratio differs from your monitor’s, black bars appear on the sides to fill the screen.
• Full Screen: Stretches the image to fit the screen, potentially distorting it if the aspect ratios differ significantly.
• No Scaling: Displays the image in its original size without stretching or resizing.

Here is how to proceed:

1. Right-click on your Desktop > Choose NVIDIA Control Panel or AMD Radeon Software, depending on your installed GPU.

   

2. Select Display > Adjust Desktop Size And Position > Choose the monitor you want to adjust from the drop-down menu if multiple displays are connected to your GPU.
3. Under Scaling, you’ll see a drop-down with Aspect Ratio, Full Screen, and No Scaling options.
4. If the image is smaller than your screen’s resolution, it will be displayed in the center of your screen with black borders on all sides.

   

5. If you’re having blurry images or text trouble, adjust the Override The Scaling Mode Set By Games And Programs option to On > Apply.

On the other hand, learn what to do if the NVIDIA control panel is crashing or missing essential options in the interface.

Display Scaling

The only different option here is Custom Scaling. It allows you to set a custom scaling percentage, which can be helpful if you have a high-resolution monitor and find that text and images are too small to read comfortably. 

Follow the instructions below:

1. Access the Desktop > Right-click on the screen > Display Settings > Advanced Display Settings.

   

2. Under Resolution, select Advanced Scaling Settings.
3. If you’re having trouble with blurry apps or text, turn on the toggle, Let Windows Try To Fix Apps So They’re Not Blurry.
4. In Scaling, there will be a drop-down with Keep the Aspect Ratio, Custom Scaling, Full Screen, and No Scaling.
5. If you have multiple monitors connected, adjust the scaling settings for each monitor individually.

Advantages Of GPU And Display Scaling

Scaling offers many benefits to the user, such as the ones discussed below. Personally, I experienced better quality game graphics after scaling my GPU. 

GPU Scaling 

Performing this can:

• Result in a sharper, more detailed image than display scaling, especially if you’re stretching a lower-resolution image.
• Be useful if you’re playing a game or watching a video that doesn’t support your monitor’s native resolution or want to stretch a lower-resolution image to fill your entire screen.
• Reduce input lag, as the graphics card can handle scaling faster than the monitor.
• Eliminate jagged edges or aliasing in some games or videos.

Display Scaling

With this, you can:

• Adjust the size of individual elements on your screen, which can be more precise than resizing the entire image.
• Improve the readability of text and other elements on your screen, especially on high-resolution monitors.

I found GPU scaling and display scaling useful tools for adjusting the resolution and scaling of content on my computer screen. However, I had to do some trial and error by modifying the adjustments to balance the resolution, scaling, and performance. With the wrong configurations, the image may look awkward.

More About PCs:

• How To Turn Off Mouse Acceleration? [Windows 11]
• SOLVED: How To Get Into BIOS [Windows 11]
• How To Lock Computer With Keyboard? [All Methods]

Abdul Hadi

[How To’s & Guides Editor]

Haddi has been in the Gaming and tech Space for over 10 Years Now; he has worked on notable websites like eXputer, Gamepur, Gear Siege, Gearnuke, and plenty more. He is an expert at Games & PC Hardware; you can expect him to solve any problem. People often joke, that if there is any problem anyone can solve, Haddi can solve it faster. Currently, Haddi writes and manages a Team of Experts at Tech4Gamers.

Contact: Haddi@tech4gamers.com

How To Perform Scaling On GPU And Display? is a post from Tech4Gamers - All About Technology And Gaming News

Key Takeaways

• Your PC can face overheating issues if you do not clean it often, which may reduce the components’ lifespan.
• Cleaning the PC occasionally can reward you with good performance and riddance from overheating.
• Air filters, cleaner surroundings, and distance from pets can help keep your PC clean for longer.

In my experience, it’s crucial to clean your PC every 3 to 6 months, although the frequency might vary depending on where you live. If you’re in an area with polluted air, you might notice dust accumulation within just a few days after giving your PC a thorough clean.

Even in cleaner environments with less dust, it’s still important to regularly open up your PC case and inspect the components. Despite the absence of pollution, there can still be unwanted substances that need removal to ensure the safety and longevity of your PC’s components.

I mostly use compressed air cans to remove dust from the hard-to-reach areas of my PC and the components. The nozzle is narrow and conveniently blows off layers of dust. However, if you do not have an air can, read how to clean a PC without compressed air.

Importance Of Cleaning A PC Often

Not cleaning your PC causes dust and debris to build up, ultimately affecting its overall condition. Not only does it harm your components physically, but it also can snatch their ability to perform the assigned tasks.

These are all the problems you may encounter for not cleaning the PC timely:

• Slower Performance: Resource-intensive tasks become sluggish, such as gaming, high-resolution movie streaming, or loading multiple tabs simultaneously. 
• Overheating: Dust settles in the PC fan bearings, over the processor, and other components, impeding the fans’ ventilation function. The heatsink also struggles to radiate heat off the processor effectively. As a result, components exert extra effort to maintain task performance while managing temperature. Meanwhile, learn about a good PC case airflow setup for optimal cooling.
• Polluted Surroundings: As your PC heats up, the fans work harder to bring in cool air, attracting surrounding dust earlier than usual. 
• Reduced Lifespan: With problems like overheating and dust build-up, the original lifespan of the PC and its components may be reduced.

Which Components Of The PC Should Be Cleaned Often?

Here is a list of essential components I clean every once in a while to prevent unwanted PC troubles. To make things easier for you, I will briefly explain the cleaning technique for each.

Monitor

Use an air compressor can or alternatives to clear dust from the monitor’s input ports. After clearing the dust, I wipe the monitor with a damp cloth to eliminate any stubborn mess.

Fans

Fans hold much dust as they are the ones that do all the air work in the first place. Therefore, you need to clean PC fans to allow smooth functioning. I use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol for tough dust. A damp cloth will also work fine. Once the fans are clean, you may attach them back into their respectful place.

Motherboard

After you have opened the computer case, unscrew the motherboard and detach the heatsink. Clean the motherboard carefully to remove any accumulated dust. After cleaning, I applied a new thermal paste on the heatsink before re-attaching ck to the motherboard so it sticks firmly. However, make sure to clean the old thermal paste completely before putting on a new batch. Also, check out how long thermal paste lasts so you can replace it timely.

Graphics Card

To clean the graphics card, again, use a compressed air can. Carefully make sure to blow off any dust that is covering the GPU slots and its heatsink. Plus, you can use our guide to fix the graphics card overheating issue.

PSU

I recommend cleaning the PSU using an air compressor. Set the correct pressure and keep it at a distance of at least 2 inches. Blow the air into the holes already present on the PSU’s sides and through the fan. Ensure to keep blowing the dust off until none comes out of the PSU. And know how long power supply units last to know when they require a replacement.

How Do I Protect My PC From Catching Dust Soon?

Here are some tips you can keep in mind so that your PC does not catch dust sooner than it should:

• Keep it out of pets’ reach, as their furs can likely block the fans from spinning if it gets between them.
• Get an air filter to prevent dust and debrom entering your computer case. 
• Keep your PC in a closed room, preferably with an AC; this will help your PC not get covered up in dust and not heat up quickly.
• Maintain clean surroundings of your PC.

As someone who cares about their PC, I always ensure it is free of any impurities. Additionally, while cleaning the PC, I was careful not to damage any sensitive areas. If you give your PC the care it needs, only then will it be able to provide you with a good performance. The lack of care can turn into quickly become a big expense. 

Similar Guides:

• How Much Is My PC Worth? [Valuation Guide]
• How Much Does It Cost To Ship a PC? [2023]
• How Much Does It Cost To Build A PC: Gaming & Budget

Ali Rashid Khan

[Wiki Editor]

Ali Rashid Khan is an avid gamer, hardware enthusiast, photographer, and devoted litterateur with a period of experience spanning more than 14 years. Sporting a specialization with regards to the latest tech in flagship phones, gaming laptops, and top-of-the-line PCs, Ali is known for consistently presenting the most detailed objective perspective on all types of gaming products, ranging from the Best Motherboards, CPU Coolers, RAM kits, GPUs, and PSUs amongst numerous other peripherals. When he’s not busy writing, you’ll find Ali meddling with mechanical keyboards, indulging in vehicular racing, or professionally competing worldwide with fellow mind-sport athletes in Scrabble at an international level. Currently speaking, Ali has completed his A-Level GCEs with plans to go into either Allopathic Medicine or Business Studies, or who knows, perhaps a full-time dedicated technological journalist.

Get In Touch: alirashid@tech4gamers.com

How Often Should I Clean My PC? [Full Guide] is a post from Tech4Gamers - All About Technology And Gaming News

Key Takeaways

• The RTX 3070 Ti had a 7.7% lead on average in our gaming benchmarks at 1440p.
• The power consumption of the RTX 4060 Ti was around 71% lower than the RTX 3070 Ti in our tests.
• On the other hand, the benchmark analysis revealed a slight 2.6% advantage in thermal efficiency for the GeForce RTX 3070 Ti and RTX 4060 Ti.

Comparison Table

Architectural Difference

1. Process Size: The RTX 4060 Ti has made strides in efficiency and power management by using a 5nm manufacturing process in its design. The RTX 3070 Ti is a generation behind, using 8nm process nodes.
2. Clock Speeds: The base clock of the RTX 4060 Ti is around 2310MHz, which is much higher than the 1575MHz base clock of the RTX 3070 Ti. The boost clocks suffer from the same difference, with the RTX 4060 Ti going up to 2535MHz while the RTX 3070 Ti goes up to only 1770MHz.
3. VRAM: Both graphics cards use the same 8GB VRAM buffer, though the memory technology on the older card, GDDR6X, is better than GDDR6 on the 4060 Ti. The bus width is also 256-bit on the older card, which is twice as wide as the 128-bit bus on the RTX 3070 Ti.
4. TDP: The more efficient processing nodes show their grace with a TDP of only 160 watts on the RTX 4060 Ti, as opposed to the 290-watt TDP of the RTX 3070 Ti.
5. Other Features: The features of both these cards are mostly matched, apart from the Frame Generation that the RTX 4060 Ti supports and the RTX 3070 Ti does not.

RTX 4060 Ti Vs RTX 3070 Ti: Gaming Benchmarks

Since we have delved into the specifications already, now it’s time to shift our focus to real-world performances and assess how the GeForce RTX 4060 Ti vs RTX 3070 Ti fares in today’s demanding gaming applications.

Testing Rig

Here are the specs of the testing rig we used to provide the benchmark numbers in this comparison:

• CPU: Intel Core i9-13900K
• Motherboard: ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero
• Memory: TridentZ5 RGB DDR5 6000 [32 GB]
• Power Supply: Titanium Modular 1000W
• Storage Drive: WD Blue SN550 1TB, WD Blue 1TB 3D NAND SATA
• Operating System: Windows 10 Pro

Spider-Man: Miles Morales

• According to our test of Spider-Man Miles Morales, the RTX 3070 Ti outperforms the RTX 4060 Ti with an impressive 127 FPS, showcasing a 5.6% increase in average framerate compared to 120 FPS.
• The RTX 3070 Ti surpasses the RTX 4060 Ti in 1% low performance, delivering a remarkable 9.2% increase with 102 FPS, outperforming the RTX 4060 Ti’s 93 FPS.

Apex Legends

• In our benchmark of Apex Legends, the RTX 3070 Ti showed an 11.5% increase in framerate over the newer card, with an average framerate of 156 FPS. Meanwhile, the RTX 4060 Ti could only reach a framerate of 139 FPS.
• 1% lows were around 14.2% better on the RTX 3070 Ti, going down to only 128 FPS compared to the 111 FPS minimum of the RTX 4060 Ti.

Call of Duty Warzone 2.0

• Call Of Duty Warzone 2.0 gave the RTX 3070 Ti an 11.4% increase in performance. According to our test, the RTX 4060 Ti only managed to get 99 FPS, while the RTX 3070 Ti flew past it with an average of 111 FPS.
• Furthermore, the RTX 3070 Ti outperforms the RTX 4060 Ti in terms of 1% low performance, exhibiting an impressive 10.7% increase and achieving 88 FPS, surpassing the RTX 4060 Ti’s 79 FPS.

Microsoft Flight Simulator

• When we ran MS Flight Sim 2020 on both cards, we only noticed a 5% advantage for the RTX 3070 Ti. It had an average framerate of 61 FPS, only a few frames higher than the 58 FPS the RTX 4060 Ti managed.
• Additionally, the RTX 3070 Ti demonstrates its advantage over the RTX 4060 Ti in terms of 1% low performance, with a decent 12.2% increase, delivering 52 FPS as opposed to the RTX 4060 Ti’s 46 FPS.

Forza Horizon 5

• Forza had the RTX 3070 Ti outputting an average framerate of 114 FPS, while the RTX 4060 Ti could only get up to 108 FPS in our testing. This came out to a 5.4% difference between the two.
• In terms of 1% low performance, the RTX 3070 Ti excels with a significant 9.3% increase, delivering 90 FPS, while the RTX 4060 Ti falls short at 82 FPS.

F1 22

• With a slight 2.2% increase in average framerate, the RTX 3070 Ti comes ahead of the RTX 4060 Ti in our test of F1 22, achieving an impressive 136 FPS compared to 133 FPS in benchmark tests.
• With a decent 7.3% increase in 1% low performance, the RTX 3070 Ti showcases its superiority over the RTX 4060 Ti, providing 113 FPS compared to the RTX 4060 Ti’s 105 FPS.

The Witcher 3

• Surpassing the RTX 4060 Ti’s 101 FPS, the RTX 3070 Ti stands out with an impressive 114 FPS in our benchmark of The Witcher 3, boasting a notable 12% increase in average FPS.
• Moreover, the RTX 3070 Ti sets itself apart from the RTX 4060 Ti by delivering superior 1% low performance, boasting a notable 10.7% increase and achieving 88 FPS instead of the RTX 4060 Ti’s 79 FPS.

Overall Gaming Performance

Our comprehensive benchmark analysis shows that the RTX 3070 Ti surpasses the RTX 4060 Ti in terms of both average FPS and 1% lows across the diverse range of games we evaluated.

The average framerate of the RTX 3070 Ti is around 117 FPS, which is around 7.7% higher than the 108 FPS the RTX 4060 Ti provided on average in our testing.

In practice, the difference between the two cards in terms of performance is rather hard to notice, but the difference might grow as these cards approach the ends of their respective life cycles.

Average Power Consumption

Our benchmark tests consistently revealed that the RTX 4060 Ti consumed less power than the RTX 3070 Ti, with an average of 130.5 W versus 276.7 W, respectively.

Regarding power efficiency, it is worth noting that the RTX 4060 Ti demonstrates an average consumption of 71.7% more efficiency than the RTX 3070 Ti based on our benchmark testing results. This difference is quite staggering for a generational improvement.

Average Thermal Statistics

During our benchmark testing, it was observed that the RTX 3070 Ti exhibited better thermal efficiency despite the RTX 4060 Ti’s lower power consumption.

Additionally, throughout the benchmark testing, it was observed that the RTX 3070 Ti consistently maintained lower temperatures compared to the RTX 4060 Ti, boasting an average temperature of 64.2°C as opposed to 66°C.

In summary, the thermal efficiency of the RTX 3070 Ti surpassed that of the RTX 4060 Ti by a slight margin of 2.6%, based on the results obtained from the benchmark analysis.

Pricing And Availability

The RTX 4060 Ti goes for around $399 very readily on marketplaces like Amazon or Newegg, whereas the going price for a new RTX 3070 Ti is around $399 also on Newegg. Bear in mind that you can find this card for much cheaper on the used market.

As for availability, both cards should be readily available at most moderate-sized computer parts retailers across the globe.

What We Recommend

Now that we have studied both cards in detail, this part of the RTX 4060 Ti vs RTX 3070 Ti comparison will dissect the good and the bad with both cards.

Though the temperatures of the RTX 4060 Ti are slightly hotter than its rival, it boasts remarkable power efficiency, untouched by anything else in the market.

On the other hand, the RTX 3070 Ti provides a noticeably better framerate, which is perhaps the only thing that your average gamer would care about. The advantage the 40-series had with its frame generation technology has also come to an end with the AMD Fluid Motion Frames technology, available to all cards, 40-series or otherwise.

In conclusion, after evaluating both cards’ pros and cons, we urge you to buy the RTX 3070 Ti unless you’re buying specifically against some power management needs.

Pros And Cons

More From RTX 4060 Ti

• RTX 4060 Ti Vs RTX 2080 Ti
• RTX 4060 Ti Vs RTX 3080
• RX 7900 GRE Vs RTX 4060 Ti 16GB

More From RTX 3070 Ti

• RTX 4070 Vs RTX 3070 Ti
• RTX 4060 Vs RTX 3070 Ti
• RTX 2070 Vs RTX 3070 Ti

Shehryar Khan

[Comparisons Expert]

Shehryar Khan, a seasoned PC hardware expert, brings over three years of extensive experience and a deep passion for the world of technology. With a love for building PCs and a genuine enthusiasm for exploring the latest advancements in components, his expertise shines through his work and dedication towards this field. Currently, Shehryar is rocking a custom loop setup for his built.

Get In Touch: shehryar@tech4gamers.com

RTX 4060 Ti vs RTX 3070 Ti: Benchmarks & Comparison is a post from Tech4Gamers - All About Technology And Gaming News

Key Takeaways

• TPM 2.0 is vital for running Windows 11 and is primarily used for identity and data protection.
• Enabling TPM 2.0 involves accessing BIOS/UEFI settings, finding the TPM option in the Security or Advanced section, and enabling it to enhance security.
• Check whether your PC has TPM 2.0 through the PC Health Check app.

Verify TPM 2.0 Compatibility

To install Windows 11, confirm that your PC has TPM 2.0. You can utilize Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool for compatibility verification. After running the test, the tool will indicate whether your device meets the requirements. For a more detailed evaluation, click See All Results to check if TPM 2.0 is enabled on your PC, as activation may be necessary.

Verify TPM 2.0 status:

1. Open PC Settings > Update and Security option > Windows Security.
2. Ensure that you choose Specification 2.0 Version in the Security Processor section. If the number differs, your computer may be incompatible with the latest Windows.

Determine whether TPM 2.0 is available by checking the Microsoft Management Console:

1. Press Windows + R keys > In the Run box, enter tpm. msc.
2. The TPM could be inactive on your computer if it displays the warning, Compatible TPM Cannot Be Detected. Otherwise, check the Specification Version in TPM Manufacturer Information. If it is lower than 2.0, the TPM may not work. 

How To Activate Through BIOS?

The BIOS contains and manages the crucial PC settings, including the TPM. If you have the right TPM installed, the next step is to activate it in the BIOS.

AMD Motherboards

Follow these steps:

1. Press F2 or Delete continuously when the computer is booting to access BIOS.
2. Press F7 to enter Advanced Mode > Click on the drop-down > Choose Settings.
3. Look for Security > Choose Security Device Support.
4. Go to AMD fTPM Switch > Change AMD fTPM to [AMD fTPM].

Intel Motherboards

Here are the steps you must follow:

1. Open BIOS > Press F7 for Advanced Mode.
2. Enter Settings > Security.
3. Click on Trusted Computing > Security Device Support > Change the status to Enable.
4. Finally, head to TPM Device Selection > Enable PTT security.

ASUS Motherboards

Take note of the following steps:

1. Continue pressing the Delete button while the computer is booting up.
2. Go to Advanced > PCH-FW > Look for PTT > Select Enable > OK.
3. Press F10 > Restart the computer.

Can I Activate TPM 2.0 In Gigabyte BIOS Auros?

I used the following methods to enable TMP 2.0 Gigabyte BIOS for AMD and Intel motherboards, and they were quick and effective in performing the required task.

AMD Motherboards

Here is what I did:

1. Restart PC > Press the Delete key > Hold it once the boot screen pops up.
2. Go to Advanced Mode > Press F2 to activate TPM.
3. Navigate to Settings > Miscellaneous > Choose AMD CPU FtPM > Save and Exit > Restart your PC.

Intel Motherboards

These are the steps you should follow:

1. Restart your computer > Hold the Delete key until there is a beep.
2. Hit F2 for Advanced Settings > Navigate to Intel Platform Trust Technology (PTT) > Select Enabled > Save the changes and exit.

Primary Functions Of TPM

Here is a look at the primary reasons for incorporating TPM:

• Managing And Storing Passwords
• Encrypting Hard Disk Partitions
• Maintaining Platform Integrity

As per my research, enabling TPM 2.0 brings several security perks, as discussed above. Therefore, I recommend making the best use of this feature if it is compatible with your Windows. Remember that different manufacturers have varying terms for the TPM. So, double-check by learning about the specific name used by your CPU’s manufacturer on their official website.

Similar PC Guides:

• How To Check What Motherboard I Have? [All Methods]
• How To Change IP Address? [PC And Smartphone]
• How To Turn Off Overclocking? [Explained]

Abdul Hadi

[How To’s & Guides Editor]

Haddi has been in the Gaming and tech Space for over 10 Years Now; he has worked on notable websites like eXputer, Gamepur, Gear Siege, Gearnuke, and plenty more. He is an expert at Games & PC Hardware; you can expect him to solve any problem. People often joke, that if there is any problem anyone can solve, Haddi can solve it faster. Currently, Haddi writes and manages a Team of Experts at Tech4Gamers.

Contact: Haddi@tech4gamers.com

How to Enable TPM 2.0? [Step By Step With Images] is a post from Tech4Gamers - All About Technology And Gaming News

Key Takeaways

• Freezing or locking your computer screen prevents unauthorized access to your system while you are away.
• The easiest way to lock the Windows OS screen is to press the Windows + L or Ctrl + Alt + Delete and select the Lock option.
• Use the Control + Command + Q keys simultaneously to freeze a macOS screen.

On Windows 7

You can freeze your Windows 7 screen using five straightforward methods that worked like a charm for me. However, I would advise you to upgrade to newer versions if you are still on Windows 7 since it is outdated and missing many new features. 

Keyboard Shortcut

I pressed the Windows + L keys simultaneously and noticed that my computer screen quickly went to the login page, thereby locking the system.

Start Menu

Here is what you need to do:

1. Launch the Start menu > Click the arrow next to the Shutdown button > Choose Lock.
2. This will lock the computer’s screen, and you will be taken to the welcome screen.

Screen Lock Shortcut

You can create a shortcut as well:

1. Right-click on Desktop> New > Shortcut.
2. Enter the following command:

   Rundll32.exe User32.dll, LockWorkStation

3. Click Next > Give the shortcut a proper name, for example, Lock Screen.
4. The Lock Screen icon will now be visible on your Desktop.
5. Right-click the icon > Properties > Select the Shortcut tab > Change Icon.

   

6. Enter the following command in the search field, Look For Icons In This File:

   C:\Windows\System32\imageres.dll

7. A list of icons will be displayed > Select the desired icon > OK.
8. Click on the Run drop-down > Minimized > OK.

   

9. Double-click on the icon to freeze your screen.

Using Shortkeys 

Use the method below:

1. Press the keys Ctrl + Alt + Delete simultaneously > Lock This Computer.
2. This will lock your computer screen.

Automatic Screen Lock

Set up an Auto Lock on Windows 7:

1. Open the Start menu > Control Panel > Personalization.
2. Come to Screen Saver tab > Enter desired time duration in the Wait box > Mark the checkbox, On Resume, Display Logon Screen > OK.

   

3. The screen will lock after the specified duration of inactivity.

On Windows 8

Apart from the combination of Windows + L and Ctrl + Alt + Delete, there is one other method that I use to freeze my Windows 8 screen.

Using Windows Key

This is what you should do:

1. Launch the Start menu > Click the User Account Picture Icon > Lock.

   

2. Your screen will be locked.

On Windows 10 & 11

Again, as I mentioned for Windows 8, the standard keyboard shortcuts also apply to both these versions. Furthermore, you can resort to additional effective ways to lock the screen.

Start Menu

Here is what I did:

1. Get to the Start menu > Click on User Account Icon >  Lock.
2. This will lock your computer’s screen.

Automatic Screen Lock

Automatically lock or freeze after a certain period of inactivity: 

1. Access the PC Settings > Personalization > Lock Screen > Select a background.
2. Again, choose Lock Screen > Screen Timeout Settings.
3. Alter the time duration under the Screen heading to set up automatic screen locking after the specified time.

   

Dynamic Lock

Using the built-in Dynamic Lock utility, configure your Windows to lock the computer screen automatically:

1. Open the Settings > Accounts > Sign-In Options.

   

2. Scroll down to the Dynamic Lock section > Mark the box, Allow Windows To Automatically Lock Your Device When You’re Away.

On Mac OS

Freezing the screen on your Mac is a bit different than doing it on Windows. Although, I found the process very easy.

Keyboard Shortcut

Follow these steps:

1. Press the Command + Option + Shift + Q simultaneously.
2. This will log out of the current User Account, close all the running applications and tabs on the system, and lock the screen.

Using Command + Shift + Q Key

I pressed Command + Shift + Q, which immediately locked the screen. Additionally, this method will display a confirmation prompt before logging out of your user account. Make sure to save your progress.

Using Control + Command + Q Keys

Press the Control + Command + Q keys. Doing this will lock the screen and redirect you toward the login screen. Plus, it lets you log into the account using your password or Touch ID and will not close any running applications.

Apple Menu

Proceed as mentioned below:

1. Go to the Apple menu > Lock Screen.
2. This will freeze your computer screen.

On OS X Yosemite/ El Capitan

I came across two methods to lock the screen on the OS X Yosemite or El Capitan on Mac. Upon testing, both were equally effective.

Menu Bar

This is among the easiest techniques. Simply click the Lock icon on the upper Menu Bar, which will instantly lock the screen on your Mac.

Keyboard Hotkeys

There are the keys you can use:

1. Press Control + Shift + Eject keys simultaneously if your Mac has an Eject Key or an Internal Optical Drive.
2. Alternately, press the Control + Shift + Power keys.
3. This will lock the screen on your Mac device.

On A Projector

If you use a projector and want to freeze the screen to hide your computer screen activity, use the projector’s remote control. Many projectors offer the option to freeze the projected display remotely.

However, not all projectors have this option. In that case, I found two ways to proceed through the computer’s OS. 

Extend Option

Move ahead with these instructions:

1. Click the Notifications Icon on the Taskbar to launch the Action Center > Project.

   

2. Pick Extend > This will lock your computer’s projected screen.

   

PC Screen Only Option

You can also black out your projector’s display. To do that:

1. Again, click the Notifications icon on the Taskbar > Project.
2. Choose PC Screen Only to black out the computer’s projected screen.

   

I recommended locking or freezing your computer screen while you are away to maintain privacy and prevent unauthorized access. Unlike the sleep or hibernation option, it also allows your processes and programs to run in the background, hence, I found it super useful.

Similar Guides:

• How To Lock Computer With Keyboard? [All Methods]
• How To Remove PIN From Windows 11? [ALL METHODS]
• All Methods To Restart Computer With Keyboard
• How To Shut Down Laptop From Keyboard? [Mac & Windows]

Abdul Hadi

[How To’s & Guides Editor]

Haddi has been in the Gaming and tech Space for over 10 Years Now; he has worked on notable websites like eXputer, Gamepur, Gear Siege, Gearnuke, and plenty more. He is an expert at Games & PC Hardware; you can expect him to solve any problem. People often joke, that if there is any problem anyone can solve, Haddi can solve it faster. Currently, Haddi writes and manages a Team of Experts at Tech4Gamers.

Contact: Haddi@tech4gamers.com

How To Freeze A Computer Screen [All Platforms + Windows] is a post from Tech4Gamers - All About Technology And Gaming News

Key Takeaways

• You can wire RGB LED strips without a controller in different ways, like an external supply, battery pack, or Arduino microcontroller.
• Connect each color to a separate power source, like a battery or power supply, to control the individual colors.
• To get fading color effects, you can use an Arduino board.

Things to Know Before You Can Wire RGB LED Strip Without A Controller

Before attempting to wire an RGB LED strip without a controller, here are a few things to know that will help you with the techniques ahead.

Determine The Voltage Lines

Each LED bulb typically consists of three colored wires: white or grey for the ground wire (transmitting electricity back to the circuit), red for the positive wire (carrying a positive charge), and black for the negative wire (carrying electricity).

Know The Wiring Process

Once you know what each wire in your RGB LED strip does, connect them to a power source. For each color of your RGB strip, there will be a pair or trio of wires you need to connect to a power source. That means you’ll have to connect the positive, negative, and ground wires separately for the red, green, and blue bulbs. 

Data Controller Connection

The data controller is what moves the pixels to display the desired color. You can solder the end of a data connector to the RGB LED strip with some wire connectors. Once you do that, it passes signals through the wire, changing the lights based on your commands.

Identifying Wires and Connecting Them

Each light on the RGB LED strip is a pixel with three prongs: positive, negative, and ground. Connect the ground, positive, and negative wires on the power supply to those of the RGB LED strip.

How To Wire RGB LED Strip Without A Controller

Before trying out one of the methods, take some time to identify the positive and negative wires in your LED strip. You’ll also have to determine which voltage line connects to each color.

Using An External Power Supply

Use an external power supply to get specific colors when you have leftover RGB LED strips without a controller. For this method, arrange a soldering kit and a 12v power supply, such as a wall adapter. You can also use a micro USB cable for the power supply, but if it delivers a higher voltage, get a converter to avoid damaging your RGB LED strip.

Here are the steps you can follow:

1. Strip the wire on the adapter cable to expose the red and black wires.
2. Notice the four points labeled +12v, G, R, and B on your RGB LED strip.
3. Solder the red wire, which is the positive wire, to the pad labeled +12v.
4. Then, solder the black or ground wire to the pad corresponding to your desired color.
5. If you want blue-colored lights, touch the ground wire to the pad labeled B; for green lights, touch it to the pad labeled G.

Mixing Colors

Of course, you won’t be limited to the primary red, blue, or green colors since this method allows you to mix colors. Just take an extra bit of wire and solder one end to the same pad as the ground wire and the other to the color you want to mix with. So, if you soldered the ground wire to the blue pad, mix it with red to get a purple effect.

Controlling Individual Colors

In case you want to control individual colors rather than sticking to a single color, you’ll have to repeat the process for each color. That means soldering a separate power supply to each color pad. Then, you can turn on the power supply that corresponds to your desired color and turn off the one you don’t want. 

Wiring Your RGB LED Strip To A Battery Pack

A simpler way to control the colors of your RGB LED strip is by wiring it to a battery pack. Instead of an external power supply, I used a battery pack to power the strip.

Moreover, you will need a battery pack and clip. Connect the positive wire to the +12v pad and the ground wire to one of the color pads. On the other hand, connect a battery to each color pad on the strip instead of just a single pad to control all the colors of your RGB LED strip.

One issue I found with this method is that I could not control how brightly the colors lit up. On the other hand, you reduce the risk of frying your LEDs since the batteries will run out before the wires overheat. 

Using Arduino Board

While the ways mentioned above allow you to control which color your RGB LED strip displays at a time, they can’t give you the desired effects. I tested an Arduino Microcontroller Board by directly connecting the positive, negative, and ground wires to it.

Usually, the average 12v RGB LED strips, also known as SMD5050, come with infrared remote control, but when you don’t have one, Arduino can help you get a custom fading effect. 

What You’ll Need

To connect an Arduino to your 12v LED strip, gather the following parts: 

• A 12v RGB LED strip
• 1 Arduino UNO Board
• 3 10k resistors
• Hookup wires
• 3 N-Channel MOSFETs (make sure they’re Logic Level)
• 12v power supply
• A breadboard

You’ll need Metal Oxide Silicon Field Effect Transistors (MOSFETs) when trying to control a component with a higher voltage than your Microcontroller, as they prevent it from overheating and frying. Namely, MOSFETs have three terminals: the source (S), drain (D), and gate (G). The voltage that passes through the gate terminal controls the current passing through the drain and source terminals.

Moreover, a major benefit of using MOSFETs is that you can pass each color of your LED strip through the MOSFET to control how bright each color on your LED strip is. I recommend getting Logic-Level MOSFETs instead of standard ones because it ensures the Arduino setup will work the way you want.

Connecting The Circuit

You can set up an Arduino and MOSFET circuit by following these steps:

1. You’ll find numbered pins on the Arduino board> Connect the pins marked 5, 6, and 9 to the Gate Terminals of the three MOSFETs.
2. Connect a 10k resistor in line with each gate terminal, securing each to the Ground Rail.
3. Connect the Source Terminals to the Ground Rail of the board.
4. Connect your LED strip’s red, blue, and green connectors to the Drain Terminals.
5. Take the 12v connector of your LED strip > Connect it to the Power Rail > Connect the Ground Pin of your Arduino board to the Ground Rail.
6. Take your 12v power supply > Connect it to the Power Rail.

LED strips usually come with Dupont connectors, which make it easy to connect the strip to Arduino. In case your strip doesn’t have connectors, solder the wires to your LED strip and power the board through the USB port. 

Fading The Lights

Next, connect your computer to the Arduino board through a USB cable:

1. Launch the Arduino IDE on your computer > Select the right port and board numbers for your board.
2. Navigate first to Tools > Port and then Tools > Board. Open up a new sketch file > Save it with a suitable name.

This Arduino sketch will fade the lights on your RGB strip, one color at a time. The lights will then stay on for a few seconds before fading completely.

To make the code, you’ll have to add the following:

• Define which pins will control the MOSFETs.
• Has an overall brightness variable of 255.
• Have individual variables for each color.
• Create a variable to control how quickly the colors will fade, which we’ll call our fadeSpeed value.
• In the setup function, set the Arduino pins as the output.
• Write the code for the TurnOn() method as 3 ‘for‘ loops that take red, blue, and green lights to their maximum brightness over a particular time.
• Write the TurnOff() method code by applying the brightness variable to the red, blue, and green color pins, effectively taking them to zero over time.  

Testing The Sketch

The TurnOn() and TurnOff() methods should be empty loop methods to prevent errors during compilation. In the end, your code should look like this:

After completing the sketch, save the file, verify it, and upload it to the board. When it works, you’ll see that each color on your 12v RGB LED strip lights up individually; the white light stays for 5 seconds and then fades completely.

I found these techniques effective when I misplaced my RGB controller. Although using an Arduino board was a bit technical, I effectively achieved transition effects in RGB  with the above steps. Before picking a method, determine whether you want solid colors or color effects, and proceed accordingly.

More About RGBs:

• RGB In Gaming: Everything To Know
• Explained: How To Change RGB On AMD Wraith Prism Cooler?
• How To Fix RGB Fusion Not Working [2023]

Abdul Hadi

[How To’s & Guides Editor]

Haddi has been in the Gaming and tech Space for over 10 Years Now; he has worked on notable websites like eXputer, Gamepur, Gear Siege, Gearnuke, and plenty more. He is an expert at Games & PC Hardware; you can expect him to solve any problem. People often joke, that if there is any problem anyone can solve, Haddi can solve it faster. Currently, Haddi writes and manages a Team of Experts at Tech4Gamers.

Contact: Haddi@tech4gamers.com

How To Wire RGB LED Strip Without A Controller? is a post from Tech4Gamers - All About Technology And Gaming News