Computer locks up constantly

[rustyjeep]

I was given a computer, because it locks up all the time. I took the guts and threw them into a new (cheap) case, formatted and installed XP - now I get the same thing. It's a 1.7 ghz celeron. I believe the problem is either the ram, the processor, or the motherboard.

It will lockup reguardless of the app that is running (it will often lockup with no apps open at all. When it does lockup, there is no error at all, the screen simply freezes and the mouse does not move at all. It will stay like this indefinately, until you reboot the computer.

So what do you guys think it is? I assume I could just start replacing things, but was hoping there was some sort of software that may help diagnose my hardware problems.

Terry

 

[mechBgon]

Try running Memtest86 on it for about 24 hours. If it gets memory errors, then that might shed light on it. If it simply freezes, then that shows that it isn't a Windows problem, at any rate (since Memtest86 runs from a boot floppy or bootable CD).

 

[chr6]

agreed, try running memtest for 24 hours. if it checks out ok, run hard drive diagnostics. if you still have issues, either swap out the motherboard or power supply. but since you switched cases, i think you can rule out power supply.

gl