PC locks up when adding PCI card

[twobit94]

I have tried to add several PCI cards and everytime they cause windows to lock up within a few minutes of operation. I have tried two different cards (a firewire and WinTV) in every available slot. I have a working PCI NIC that I have been afraid to move.

Here are my computer specs:
Windows XP Pro SP2
Shuttle AV42
512MB RAM
1 x 60G Maxtor HD
1 x 80G WD HD
1 x Khypermedia DVD-RW
1 x Samsung CD_RW

Thanks for the help

 

[Crowley16]

could be a power problem, how big a psu are you using?

--------------------
Procrastinate Now!

 

[LloydSev]

Yeah, freezing is a symptom of PSU problems... especially when it only happens if you add a component..

Computer/Network Technician
CCNA

 

[twobit94]

It is a POWMAX 400W.

Output
+5V / 30A Max +12V / 25A Max
-12V / .8A Max +3.3V / 28A Max
-5V / .3A Max +5Vsb / 2.0A Max

 

[LloydSev]

Ever used a multimeter?

Computer/Network Technician
CCNA

 

[twobit94]

I know how to use a multimeter. How do I go about testing the PSU? Thanks

 

[Nifrabar]

What about the idea of being an IRQ problem?
-Bart