If you're experiencing unusually high CPU usage due to "System Interrupts" in the Windows 10 Task Manager, particularly in connection with the ACPI.sys driver while a serial port device is connected, you're not alone. This issue can be confusing and frustrating for many users. Below, we'll delve into the problem, examine the original code causing it, and offer practical solutions.
Problem Scenario
When a serial port device is connected to your Windows 10 computer, you may notice that the CPU usage spikes significantly, often shown as "System Interrupts" in the Task Manager. This increased CPU load is frequently linked to the ACPI.sys driver, which is responsible for advanced power management in devices.
Here's a simplified version of what the problem looks like:
High "System Interrupts" CPU usage in Task Manager:
- Driver in question: ACPI.sys
- Condition: Serial port device is connected
Understanding "System Interrupts" and ACPI.sys
"System Interrupts" is not an actual process but a placeholder for interrupts generated by hardware devices that the CPU must respond to. A high percentage of CPU usage under "System Interrupts" typically indicates that some hardware is misbehaving or that there is a problem with the drivers managing the connected hardware.
ACPI.sys is a crucial part of the Windows operating system, providing a mechanism for power management on laptops and desktops. When a serial port device is connected, ACPI.sys may struggle to manage power and resources effectively, resulting in high CPU usage.
Causes of High CPU Usage
Several factors can lead to increased CPU usage from ACPI.sys when a serial port device is connected:
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Outdated Drivers: If your serial port or ACPI drivers are outdated, compatibility issues can arise, causing high CPU utilization.
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Faulty Hardware: Sometimes the serial port device itself may have issues, which can lead to erratic behavior and a higher load on the CPU.
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Power Management Settings: Improper settings in the power management options can also cause ACPI.sys to overwork, leading to increased CPU consumption.
Solutions to Reduce High CPU Usage
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Update Drivers: Make sure that both your ACPI and serial port drivers are updated. You can do this through the Device Manager:
- Right-click the Start menu and select "Device Manager."
- Locate the "Ports (COM & LPT)" section and find your serial port device.
- Right-click and choose "Update Driver."
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Check for Hardware Issues: If possible, test the serial port device on another machine to ensure it is functioning correctly. A faulty device can lead to erratic system behavior.
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Adjust Power Management Settings:
- Go to Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Power Options.
- Click on "Change plan settings" next to your selected plan.
- Select "Change advanced power settings."
- Expand "PCI Express" and "Link State Power Management," and ensure it is set to "Off."
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Use Device Manager to Disable Unused Serial Ports: If you have multiple serial port devices, consider disabling any that are not in use:
- In Device Manager, expand the "Ports (COM & LPT)" section.
- Right-click on any unused ports and select "Disable."
Conclusion
Experiencing high CPU usage due to "System Interrupts" linked to ACPI.sys when a serial port device is connected can be a significant inconvenience. By taking the steps outlined above, including updating drivers, checking for hardware issues, and adjusting power management settings, you can potentially reduce the CPU load and improve overall system performance.
Additional Resources
For further inquiries or assistance, please consult with a professional technician or reach out to relevant support forums dedicated to Windows operating systems.
This article aims to provide a clear understanding of the problem, actionable solutions, and useful resources, making it a beneficial read for anyone facing similar issues with their Windows 10 system.
