- AMD confirms intermittent stutter with fTPM problem on Ryzen systems.
- The problem affects Windows 11 and Windows 10 users.
- System BIOS update is coming in May 2022.
On Windows 11 and Windows 10, a small number of users with AMD-based hardware are coming across intermittent stutter performance issues. The problem has been around for several weeks, but the processor manufacturer has now confirmed it.
In the announcement, AMD explains that stuttering can happen on Ryzen computers with fTPM ( Firmware Trusted Platform Module) when performing “extended fTPM-related memory transactions in SPI flash memory (“SPIROM”) located on the motherboard.” As a result, this can lead to “temporary pauses in system interactivity or responsiveness until the transaction is concluded.”
The company says that affected devices will need a system BIOS update to resolve the issue permanently, but the update won’t be available until early May 2022. However, it may take longer for users to receive the update since the schedule will depend on the motherboard manufacturer testing and integration timing.
AMD notes that if you are dependent on fTPM functionality may instead have to use a hardware TPM (“dTPM”) device to get around the problem. Platform dTPM modules utilize onboard non-volatile memory (NVRAM) that supersedes the TPM/SPIROM interaction described in this article.”
However, if you decide to use the workaround, it’s important to note that switching from fTPM to dTPM, it’s critical to disable TPM-backed encryption systems (for example, BitLocker Drive Encryption) and back up vital system data before switching TPM devices. Also, you will need administrator rights to complete the task.
