Help! My computer just shuts down

[Wingnut2242]

Actually it is my sisters computer. It is an e machine with a Cyrix M II 366 Mhz MMX processor. It only has 32MB Ram and uses windows 98. This thing just shuts down and reboots when it feels like it. Usually about every 30 to 45 minutes. Does any one have any ideas about what I can check? I have checked the power settings and they are set to never shut off. I am at a loss......Help!

 

[NotoriousJTC]

Maybe it's heat?

 

[isekii]

it's prolly a virus..

 

[bjc112]

check windows update... lots of Updates there..

 

[mztykal]

Build her a new one.

I did that for my little bro. His Compaq was giving too much problems. I just made him a new one.

 

[ricerx]

Might be a heating problem. Cyrix chips run high temps so if your fan is dusty or is about to go, it might overheat. However, this could be numerous things also. Loose card, conflicting hardware or software.

 

[Wingnut2242]

I have tried windows updates and that didnt do anything. I need to check for viruses. And yes she needs a new comuter but for some ungodly reason likes this one. Oh well.......

 

[Pepsi90919]

Power Saving gone amok?

 

[kimy9131]

the power supply may be failing, or the ram chips are failing,both are cheap fixes about $30 bucks a piece.

 

[Harvey]

From the speed of the chip (and the fact that it's a Cyrix), sounds like it's a fairly old machine. The power supply could be getting tired. Unfortunately, it would probably cost more to replace the PS than the machine is worth, especially if it uses one with a proprietary form factor.

If you have an AC volt meter, measure the line voltage. If it's low, that could cause your power supply to recycle. If it isn't low, you may have too many things on the same power circuit. If so, move the machine to a different circuit (one that's on another fuse/circuit breaker). You can also check this if you have a UPS handy.

Good luck.

BTW, isn't this a little off topic for the Off Topic forum?