In case it helps anyone using Alienware computers, they offer a utility called Alienware Thermal Controls. The app lets you adjust the CPU, Case and PCI fan speeds.
DON’T USE IT!
I was having random shut downs when doing short or long encodes. With no warning: Poof! No video, no sound, no keyboard response- just fans still running.
I upgraded the PSU from an 850W to a 1,500W model, added more case fans, and nothing worked. Then, I realized that I only used the Alienware Thermal Controls app to increase fan speeds when doing Topaz Video AI encodes.
I stopped using it and the system is now 100% stable. The CPU cooks a bit more, getting up to 180F or so, but this is well below TJMax. MSI Afterburner takes care of the GPU fan speeds.
Just sharing in case you have an Alienware and you’re using their lousy Thermal Controls app.
