Getting Machine_Check_Exception BSOD on xp boot

[IconOfSin]

when ever i start up my pc when windows is loading a get a bsod that says Machine_check_exception, there were some numbers under it and next time i boot up my pc i will post them. one strange thing about it is that the error occurs at different points in loading and the amout of times i get it before windows loads varies (its usually 6-9 times) and once it loads its fine and can usually restart it if i have to with out problem as long as it doesnt stay off for more than a few seconds. i have a few ideas on whats causing the problem but not 100% sure about any one

1. windows updates - i seem to get this screen after windows updates its self
2. x-fi platinum - have had other issues with the card, creative acknowledges a problem with the card and n force 4 motherboards
3. need a bigger powersupply? - pc specs in sig, havent had any issues with comp when i stress vid card but the vid card is power hungry

thanks for the help, let me know if more info is needed to help solve this

 

[jameswhite1979]

I suggest that you boot with a linux distro and see how the system runs in that enviroment. Might give you an idea if it is the windows installation or hardware.

Often memory can cause these 'random' crashes so might be worth taking the memory to one DIMM for testing. Often more elimination than pin pointing at the early stage.

 

[IconOfSin]

i was using open suse for a while but i quit using it because creative labs doesnt have linux drivers for the x-fi. when i was runnning open suse i had no problems. ill install it again in the next few days see how it goes.

oh still dont have the numbers from the bsod as when i turn off auto reboot it doesnt show the bsod it just locks up