Re: Mysterious Computer Lock-Ups

Tech-Archive recommends: Repair Windows Errors & Optimize Windows Performance

From: D.Currie (dmbcurrie.nospam_at_hotmail.com)
Date: 02/10/04 

Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2004 23:12:07 -0700

"First_Last_73" <first_last_73@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:c2a36d6d.0402092128.44404a7f@posting.google.com...
> I have a two-year-old custom-built machine running Windows XP
> Professional. 512 MB RAM, 80 GB HD, DVD-RW Drive, 1.6 GHz Processor.
> I have been plagued in recent months with the system freezing. When
> the problem first occurred, I was advised that I may have an
> overheating problem, so I installed SpeedFan to monitor my CPU's
> temperature. Upon seeing readings of 140 F, I tried taking the side
> off the computer's case, which lowered the temp to around 108 F.
>
> This solution has worked for some time. However, now the lock-ups are
> returning, usually after the computer has been on for some time (an
> hour or more). The CPU temp is still below 110 F, so I don't think
> this is the problem. When the crash occurs, Windows will simply
> freeze, and the only solution is to unplug the computer and plug it
> back in. Often, when I reboot the computer, the machine powers on,
> but the monitor remains blank. I don't even get a POST test, no
> beeps, no BIOS information on-screen, nothing. If the machine is left
> powered down for some time (half an hour sometimes), it will usually
> power back up, at which point the computer is good for another hour,
> when the entire process repeats itself.
>
> As a side note, the lock-up almost never happens if the computer is
> "idling," only when I am doing a task of some sort -- recording
> CDs/DVDs, playing music with Media Player, or just searching the Web.
> Also, occasionally, at the instant the lock-up occurs, a high-pitched
> electronic tone, like a synthesized "beep," can be heard from the
> speakers. The tone lasts maybe 1/4 of a second.
>
> This is getting very frustrating. Having built the machine myself, I
> have no source to call for help. I would really appreciate any input
> on this issue.

Get a better CPU fan.

But if you've been overheating it regularly, there's a chance the CPU is
damaged already.

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