System locks up frequently

[Chuck]

I just upgraded to XP home. Tried installing over ME, but
system would lock up every time the counter reached 16
min. remaning. I than installed XP on a new hard drive in
the same computer. It loaded ok, however my system
randomly locks up when in use. Do you know what could be
causing this.

 

[mb]

I just upgraded to XP home. Tried installing over ME, but
system would lock up every time the counter reached 16
min. remaning. I than installed XP on a new hard drive in
the same computer. It loaded ok, however my system
randomly locks up when in use. Do you know what could be
causing this.

Bad memory?

 

[marx404]

System resources and memory are the biggest culprits in slowdowns and
lock-ups.

You shouldd have at least 128mb ram memory (more is better!) in your pc and
also at least a 350mhz pentuim (or compatible) processor (I highly recommend
400 or higher!).

Also look at resources, like how many items are you running at one time? How
many items are in your system tray (the area next to your clock), turn off
each item from showing in the tray (goto each programs properties and
uncheck tray icon options for each program running). More than a few icons
there will kill your system, ie: Quicktime, AOL, Realplayer, MusicMatch
icons, you dont need them in your system tray, that means they are running!)

Finally, if you are on an older computer, turn off the XP fluff and goto
Themes and change the theme to Windows Classic. This will save on alot of
resources.

Good luck, I would look at memory 1st then your system tray icons, then the
rest.
marx404