Fred said:
Can't get to the screen displaying user names. Machine
freezes when Windows XP screen comes up. I can access
files on the computer from another machine on my network,
but can't get past xp screen on this computer.
Unfortunately, this isn't enough information to get a good answer. Here
are generic troubleshooting steps for you to take:
A. For software issues (if you can get into Safe Mode or use Last Known
Good Configuration to get into regular mode) - 1) scan with current
antivirus ("current" means a version not later than 2002 but using
updated virus definitions); 2) remove spyware with Spybot Search &
Destroy (
www.security.kolla.de) and Ad-aware (
www.lavasoftusa.com). Be
sure to update these programs before running, and it is a good idea to
do virus/spyware scans in Safe Mode; 3) delete temporary and Temporary
Internet Files; 4) stop unnecessary services/programs from starting
with Windows - see
www.blackviper.com for services info and
www.pacs-portal.co.uk/startup_index.htm for programs info - 5) look in
Event Viewer for clues.
B. For hardware issues - 1) open the computer and run it open, cleaning
out all dust bunnies and observing all fans (overheating will cause
system freezing); 2) test the RAM - I like Memtest86 from
www.memtest86.com - let the test run for an extended (like overnight)
period of time - unless errors are seen immediately; 3) test the hard
drive with a diagnostic utility from the mftr.; 4) test the
motherboard. If you can't do this testing yourself, take the machine to
a good local computer repair shop (not a CompUSA or Best Buy type of
store).
Malke
