computer lock-ups

[krisg]

I recently got myself a new computer:
Thunderbird 1GHz
MSI K7T-PRO 2a mb
128 MB PC100 SDRam
Creative GeForce 2 GTS
Creative Live Player 1024
Creative cdrom 52x
Hard Disk Maxtor 40 GB
A very annoying problem occurs several times a day: the computer locks up and only a hard reboot works. At first I thought it was due to the high temps I got (57°C with case closed), but now I work with the case open (49°C) and the problem still occurs. Especially when I try to use the cdrom (for installing software or playing some games) the computer locks up. Does anyone have an idea what could be wrong?

 

[mbaranski]

Re-seat all of your components. All power cables and IDE and Floppy cable, plus Modem, NIC, processor if it's not too hard (Be Careful!), memory, and stuff. Also, make sure that the processor fan is TOUCHING the processor, it won't work as well if it's not. I've seen them overheat if the fan's spinning and not touching the processor

Also, if there's any dust in the machine blow it out. This can cause a short. I think that re-seating your stuff will work, though.

Also, check your CMOS settings and make sure the memory timing is set right and the bus speed is not overclocked or anything.

Good Luck!
Mike B. As always, I hope that helped!

Disclaimer:
Beware: Studies have shown that research causes cancer in lab rats.

 

[CitrixEngineer]

In addition to mbaranski's comments:

If your processor is reaching those sort of temperatures, I would recommend upgrading your cooling system. T-birds are notorious for requiring huge cooling systems that go beyond mere fans.

If you can, have a secondary fan, reverse-wired, to improve air circulation. I wouldn't recommend using a computer with the case on for a long period of time because of the huge dust build-ups which will occur between components.

If you have a large case, I would recommend a 3rd fan, located above the hard disks. This is an area where heat accumulates and, in the worst cases, heat pockets build up between cards where the temperature can exceed that reported by the CPU monitors. This can damage peripheral cards, such as graphics, sound, etc.

I hope this is useful to you.

 

[Comtech]

Another thought. Is your case on the AMD approved list for power supply voltages etc? Many users are having troubles with el-cheapo PSU's not supplying correct voltages, at least within certain tolerances for the T-Birds and Durons to run properly. Cheers,
Jim
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[NEMS]

I think there is hardware conflict in your new computer. Bring it back to the shop where you bought it. Avail of the warranty.

NEMS

 

[xdee]

I have a similar problem... My system hangs with a continuous LOAD beep. It always happens when i'm either in the OS (Win98) or when the OS is booting, but never during POST.

My hardware...

SuperMicro SC-750A Case (Tower, 3 Fans)
SuperMicro P6DGU Motherboard
1 Intel 450Mhz PIII Processor
256MB Ram (Always passes POST without Probs)
Nvidia Riva TNT Graphics Card (16MB/AGP)
WinTV Hauppage TV Card (PCI)
Aztek ISA Sound Card
Pioneer 32xCD 6xDVD
Yamaha 4416 CDRW

Any ideas??

 

[Comtech]

How about dumping the Aztek ISA? That must be a really old card.
Have you chcecked into issues with your TNT card? Cheers,
Jim
reboot@pcmech.com

http://members.cnx.net/reboot/

Moderator at

http://www.56k.com

Staff at

http://www.pcmech.com

Windows 9x/ME instructor.
Jim's Modems:

http://members.cnx.net/reboot/modems/