Computer Hangs?

[Guest]

I'm using windows XP and just recently my computer has started hanging
(screen freezes). It starts from cold and will operate for about 5 minutes
then it hangs. But it doesn't always hang at the same point, sometimes when
using outlook express, or explorer or even if the computer isn't being used.
I can then only restart the computer using the reset switch on the facia.
Once restarted the screen hangs almost immediately once windows has
installed, This happens about 6 or 7 times before the computer seems to
operate without a problem.
I've ran Norton Anti-Virus software, Spyware removal software and even
de-fraged the disk, but I still keep having the same problem.
Can anyone help, please!

 

[Mark L. Ferguson]

Boot to the XP setup CD, and press 'r' for recovery console, run the command : CHKDSK /R

 

[Guest]

Thanks, but I don't have a set up CD, windows XP was already installed when I
got the computer. Any other sugestions?
Cheers
Neil

 

[Mark L. Ferguson]

Almost every system is supplied with some form of recovery. Often an "i386' folder on the drive. This would let you put Recovery
Console on the (press F8) Safe Mode menu during startup.
How to install and use the Recovery Console in Windows XP:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;307654&Product=winxp


The point of running chkdsk from there is the ability to release the drive during any fix necessary. Try to install the RC to
another drive or partition, if present.. ( chkdsk /r Will run from a command prompt.)

 

[Guest]

Managed to run chkdsk/r, computer went through the motions and everything
seems okay, but it still keeps crashing for no reason. Any other sugestions?
cheers
Neil

 

[Mark L. Ferguson]

Well, only you could know what recovery options you have available for that system, but it's a sure bet that any 'hang' that forces
a restart in XP is going to be some conflict with a hardware driver. (corrupt, or needs updating)

You might just be seeing the Norton anti-virus working on startup. Task Manager will show what is happening at the time.