Windows Freezes Randomly

[Guest_imported]

Windows Xp keeps freezing... Xp freezes and you then have to reboot. During a freeze the screen locks(everything is open you can see the cursor, but cant use mouse & keyboard...it is like a snap shot of the screen)... The freezing seems to occur randomly... I have replaced memory and video card has been swapped out. I have also reformatted my windows partion of my hard drive... Computer --- Win xp... FIC mobo, 800 AMD duron, 512 pc 133 memeory,ATI 7500 64ddr video.

 

[mikecx]

Check system temps in the BIOS. Had a computer at freeze. Checked the temps and they were at 170F. Turns out the thermal goo was spread to thinly and the fan on the heatsink was dying.

 

[Iefke]

Indeed, first check the cooling. Although...
I had the same problem with one of the PC's at work. The cooling was fine. It turned out to be a bad processor (this one was Intel). It's my first bad processor in almost 20 years, and I have installed hundreds of PC's!

 

[linney]

What software has been installed prior to this problem starting? Software may be conflicting with windows or with other software. Common causes are Anti Virus and Security type programs or CD Burning programs.

Have a look in the Event Viewer (at the System folder and also the Application one). This will show you details of system errors you are having. Also look at any Warning or Information (Save Dump) messages. Event Viewer is found in Computer Management via right clicking on My Computer. Any errors you find right click on them for further information.

How to Troubleshoot By Using the Msconfig Utility in Windows XP (Q310560)

http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q310/5/60.asp

Run the System file checker (SFC) using the command "sfc /scannow" from the run command.
This will check if any installed software has corrupted your System Files.

HOW TO: Verify Unsigned Device Drivers in Windows XP(Q308514)

http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q308/5/14.asp