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General discussion

pc freezes constantly

by kasra12321 Feb 23, 2006 12:04PM PST

seeking help. pc freezes within 2-30 minutes of use of keyboard/finger pad (never happens if computer is turned on but sitting idle).
toshiba laptop (satellite A70, model S209), pentium 4, 512 mb, 60gb (4200 rpm), windows xp.

began one yr after purchase (warranty just expired). had begun new internet cable provider (verizon) 2-4 wks before it start.

scanned viruses--ok
purged some background processes (windows messenger, quicktime and few others)
still happens.

any ideas?

Discussion is locked

4 Posts
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I can't think of a subject
by TammySS Feb 24, 2006 10:56AM PST

My laptop used to do that and it got really annoying, so I read some website that said ti remove the hard drive, slam it againsed a hard surface, then put it beck in. I tried that and it never froze since. you should try that.

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(NT) (NT) NOT RECOMMENDED
by linkit Feb 24, 2006 1:16PM PST
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spyware infestation
by linkit Feb 24, 2006 1:12PM PST

Antivurus is not enough. You need to scan for SPYWARE with at least two good antispyware programs.

You also need to install a firewall. I highly recommend ZoneAlarm (free) over Windows XP Firewall.

A router (with a built-in firewall) placed in between your computer and the DSL modem will help, too.

I am assuming you are using Windows XP. Correct? If so, have you been running Windows Update?

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Don't overlook the obvious.
by Stan Chambers Feb 24, 2006 1:39PM PST

A clogged, dirty, or failing cooling fan may let the machine overheat, causing it to shut down.
Blow out the dust. Download some utility that will show the operating temp., such as cpu-z, to check for overheating cpu.
Last, but not least, a too small, weak, or failing power suppy can be the culprit. You can't have too much power, only too little.

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