PCMech Forums - View Single Post - Unbelieavable problems with Desktop PC...Read this~!

**Panama Red** · 09-22-2005, 09:51 PM

First two things to eliminate as possible hardware issues are memory and hard drives. Download Memtest86+, make a boot floppy with it (or bootable CD) and let it run for a couple of full passes. If you get any errors, test the memory sticks one at a time to see which one is faulty. Test your hard drives with the drive maker's diagnostic software.

I doubt the CPU is overheating because a P4 will downclock to protect itself.

Almost sounds like a weak power supply or an overheated Southbridge with all the usb devices you're using. However, you did say that you've disconnected the external hard drives and experienced the same lock ups.

You also said "no spyware". What programs/tools have you run to assure your system is clean? Do you happen to be running either Norton or McAfee Internet Security or Antivirus programs?

09-22-2005, 09:51 PM	#5
Panama Red Served with Pride Staff Premium Member Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: near the left coast of Michigan Posts: 14,565	First two things to eliminate as possible hardware issues are memory and hard drives. Download Memtest86+, make a boot floppy with it (or bootable CD) and let it run for a couple of full passes. If you get any errors, test the memory sticks one at a time to see which one is faulty. Test your hard drives with the drive maker's diagnostic software. I doubt the CPU is overheating because a P4 will downclock to protect itself. Almost sounds like a weak power supply or an overheated Southbridge with all the usb devices you're using. However, you did say that you've disconnected the external hard drives and experienced the same lock ups. You also said "no spyware". What programs/tools have you run to assure your system is clean? Do you happen to be running either Norton or McAfee Internet Security or Antivirus programs?