Windows 10: Huge latency spikes (freezes, hiccups) while downloading and streaming

Hi guys!

I really need your help on this one. Usually I’m good at troubleshooting and finding solutions without having to start my own threads. This time however, it seems impossible to find a solution. Anyway, here’s the thing:
When downloading through utorrent, steam etc and listening to music/watching videos I get huge DPC latency spikes when touching the trackpad. The spikes result in robotic sound, computer hiccups and freezes (minor 1 sec freezes, every 3-5 seconds) But here’s the weird thing. I don’t get the spikes if I’m not touching the trackpad or IF I have a usb mouse connected to my laptop. For some reason, having a usb mouse connected solves the latency problem instantly. Then I can download, listen to audio and watch videos without any problems even though moving the mouse like crazy. So strange.

I have a Lenovo 710 14’ laptop with windows 10. Bought it a week ago. Kaby lake.

I7-7500u
Nvidia 940mx
8 gb ram
256 gb ssd

I have tried a bunch of potential solutions. Creating a bigger pagefile, updating all drivers to newest and also degrading to Lenovo’s website drivers (older). I’ve disabled bits and windows update. I’ve change the power scheme, so that the processor minimum is 100%. And a lot of other things. I can’t even think about everything I’ve tried.

I’ve used latency mon to investigate the latency spikes. Latency mon says that the culprit is WDF01000.sys. I’ve read that it’s difficult to say which driver uses that file etc. While using latency checker I tried disabling the realtek audio adapter. That made the spikes go away. I’m playing music through spotify, which can be quite bandwidth heavy.
It’s like my computer is really sensitive to heavy internet activity, combined with audio/video streaming.

The task manager doesn’t show anything special when the spikes occur. The system interrupt process take up a bit more cpu and memory, but that’s basically it. Otherwise, the computer works fine. It’s just in the specific situation where I download, stream something and don’t have a mouse connected that this happens.

Any ideas would me MUCH appreciated!

:)

 

Audio and Cursor lag - After recent Windows 10 update

Ok, I have tried this and rolled back to a previous version and still have the same problem.

The Audio Crackle / Buzz, goes away when the computer is not plugged into the power charger.

I have also downloaded and used a Latency Checker (DPC Latency Checker) and it spikes quite alot. It noticeably improves and stops spiking when I disable the "Microsoft AC Adapter" in the Device Manager.

The audio buzz also goes away if I Disable the "Microsoft ACPI - Compliant Control Method Battery" from the device manager

What would be causing this issue?

 

PC game is skippy/laggy in fullscreen

I suggest you to monitor your CPU for some time, not only when playing the game. If the CPU spikes often you might want to check the CPU temperature. Six out of ten times temperature problems cause lag issues not Windows itself.

I suggest:

1. Monitor your CPU over a period of few hours while playing or using resource intensive applications

2. Install
openhardwaremonitor to get clues about temperature or voltage issues

3. Run virus scan with at least 2 independent scanners besides Windows Defender

4. Get rid of junk & temp files: download
CCleaner

5. Get
Latency Optimizer and record your game play with the Performance Recorder and check the log file for clues about CPU spikes

A.) If CPU temperature spikes high or stays high to bring your PC to service if your PC is still within the warenty.

B.) If your PC is out of warranty you can google for YouTube videos on how to refresh the cooling liquid on your CPU and how to use a vacuum cleaner to clean your CPU fan.

!Please before you do all that steps verify that your CPU spikes also in other situation or games!

 

Welcome to the Ten Forums

While I don't have an answer have you tried Nirsoft Driver View available here DriverView: Loaded Windows Drivers List

Its description column may give you that added piece of info to track origination.