BSOD Hardware Malfunction - need some guidance

[s_m_b]

Since rebuilding PC with XP, been getting '*** HARDWARE MALFUNCTION' on odd
occasions.
Problem is, no stop message, just the ;'system halted' and the 'contact
your vendor'

I've reduced the frequency by swapping out some of the DIMMs, the video
card, and adding a USB card.

I've installed the MS debugger, but don't really know where to go with
it...

 

[Ron Martell]

Since rebuilding PC with XP, been getting '*** HARDWARE MALFUNCTION' on odd
occasions.
Problem is, no stop message, just the ;'system halted' and the 'contact
your vendor'

I've reduced the frequency by swapping out some of the DIMMs, the video
card, and adding a USB card.

I've installed the MS debugger, but don't really know where to go with
it...

That sounds like it is originating from the system BIOS, Check the
motherboard documentation or with the computer/motherboard
manufacturer's web site.

It could be an overheating alarm that is triggering this, or possibly
a power supply voltage problem.

Good luck


Ron Martell Duncan B.C. Canada
--
Microsoft MVP
On-Line Help Computer Service
http://onlinehelp.bc.ca

"The reason computer chips are so small is computers don't eat much."