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Dell PC with freezing issue..

S

SSpiro

Limp Gawd
Joined
Jan 5, 2005
Messages
259
I have a friend with a Dell Dimension P4 (don't have model # in front of me) that has an issue with constant freezing. Typically right after Windows loads (XP). Has 512MB of RAM

I assumed it was a windows problem, and backed up data, installed a fresh copy of windows and it was all fine for 2 or 3 days. I gave the PC back to them, and it was fine yesterday. Today, it's right back up to constant locking up.

Obviously its not a software issue.. now its a hardware issue.

They had brought it to a shop who told them it needed a new mobo. I didn't believe that which is why i attempted to fix. Could it be chip creep? Dying HDD? Dying mobo?
Thoughts?
 
www.ultimatebootcd.com

Also, Goto Dell Support and look for support files for the model. Sometimes Dell provides a generic Dell Diagnostic CD. It is relative small file you can download which you eventually burn to CD. Boot the Diagnostic CD to run full test. If you cannot find per the exact model, other newer model in the same series or same group will do just fine. Dimension --> look for other models of Dimension and search for Diagnostic CD.

Finally, if it is Dimension P4, it is a long serving unit. Swap in a spare good PSU to test. Alternatively, check capacitors.
 
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Did they install anything once you gave it back to them?

I'm always suspicious when I give someone a machine in working order they get it back then the same problem happens again soon as they touch it.
 
Well, it's only been 24 hours though. I mean, I guess they could have, but I don't think its relevant right now since it's still acting the same within hours of dropping it off..

She just called to let me know that now it only turns on about half the time. Other half time that it does turn, it locks up once windows boots up.

Any thoughts? It's gotta be hardware. Just.. what..
 
Do does it really not turn on half the time when you have it?

See if the following helps.

Clear CMOS.

Try another PSU.

If those don't help and its still not powering on then they place could have been right about the motherboard.
 
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