Fixing the DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE Blue Screen Error
The DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE error, often manifesting as a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) with the stop code 0x0000009F, indicates a problem with a device driver's power management state. This usually occurs when Windows is trying to transition a device into a sleep or hibernation state, or when waking it up. Identifying and resolving the culprit driver is key to fixing this frustrating issue.
Common Causes and Initial Troubleshooting
Several factors can trigger this error. Here are some of the most common:
- Outdated or Corrupted Drivers: This is the most frequent cause.
- Hardware Incompatibility: Newly installed hardware might not be fully compatible with your system.
- Power Supply Issues: An inadequate or failing power supply can cause instability during power state transitions.
- Fast Startup: Windows' Fast Startup feature can sometimes interfere with driver initialization.
Here are some initial troubleshooting steps you can take:
- Update Drivers: Use Device Manager to check for driver updates. Specifically, focus on graphics drivers, network adapters, and storage controllers. Visit the manufacturer's website for the latest versions.
- Disable Fast Startup: Go to Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do. Click "Change settings that are currently unavailable". Uncheck "Turn on fast startup (recommended)".
- Run Windows Memory Diagnostic: Search for "Windows Memory Diagnostic" and run the tool to check for memory errors. This process can take several minutes.
Advanced Solutions for DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE
If the initial steps don't resolve the issue, more advanced troubleshooting might be required.
Driver Rollback and System Restore
If the problem started after a recent driver update, consider rolling back to the previous version:
- Open Device Manager.
- Right-click the problematic device.
- Select "Properties".
- Go to the "Driver" tab.
- Click "Roll Back Driver" (if the option is available).
If you can't identify a specific driver causing the problem, using System Restore to revert your system to a previous working state can be effective. Search for "Create a restore point" and click "System Restore."
Hardware Diagnostics and Power Supply Check
If you suspect a hardware issue, run diagnostics for your hard drive and other components. Consult your motherboard or computer manufacturer's documentation for instructions. A failing power supply can be difficult to diagnose without specialized equipment. If you suspect a power supply issue, consider having it tested by a qualified technician or replacing it with a known good unit.
By systematically working through these steps, you can often identify and resolve the root cause of the DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE error and restore stability to your system.