Windows Explorer not responding

[Guest]

I have an XP problem that seems to be getting worse.

If I have left my PC idle for a short time (even a minute) and sometimes
when in the middle of work, the computer freezes briefly then a pop up box
tells me Windows Explorer is not responding followed by a "send error message
/ don't send error message" box. (I don't have Windows Explorer open at the
time).

After that everything seems normal again until the next time it occurs
(sometimes minutes later).

The problem is usually when the PC has been left idle and mostly, but not
always when Internet Explorer is open.

I am not running any other programmes. What could be causing it ? I am
thinking of doing a complete factory setting start if I can't solve this.

Thanks

 

[Frankster]

Note: crossposting is much more effecient than double posting (in
windowsmediacenter and windowsxp)

What (if any) new drivers/software have you installed recently?

Sometimes a driver can cause this sort of thing. Video drivers are one
common cause.

Also, bad or intermittent memory problems can cause this (also common).

Operating in too hot conditions can cause this (i.e. computer boxed in with
nowhere for the air to go - or, bad fan).

One thing I would do first is to take off the case, verify the fans are all
working, and re-seat the memory chips. Then test again. If you have enough
memory chips, try removing some and see how it tests out. (i.e. you have 2
gig with four chips - remove two and run with 1Gig). Admittedly, most folks
to not have the memory to do this.

Another thing you can do (maybe first since it is easy) is to Start | Run |
sfc /scannow

(Scans all protected system files and replaces incorrect versions with
correct
Microsoft versions.)

Of course, sanning for spyware and viruses is always recommended.

-Frank