lockup problem

[amdskip]

Pentium 4 computer, ecs motherboard, using onboard video, can't remember the computer manufacturer.

Computer locks up in the bios after 15 seconds or so. I have replaced the memory and hooked an Antec 350w power supply. Sometimes the bios is just white and black instead of blue/white. Original problem was a very corrupted/spyware/viruses install of windows. I think it's the motherboard. One clip is not on the heatsink because the plastic broke.

Thanks!

 

[sykopath79]

You need to replace your heatsink bracket, for one thing. It needs two clips for a reason, to keep enough tension on the heatsink to make contact with the CPU and pull heat off of it. Every single time I've seen a P4 box with one clip missing or broken, it's unstable as all hell because of heat.

Replace this $5 part first, then see how you fare.

 

[amdskip]

It seems tight but I agree. Wheres the best deal on a pentium 4 heatsink?

edit, mean't the plastic thing, sorry

 

[sykopath79]

The heatsink is not what you need to replace. You need the plastic mounting bracket that screws on to the motherboard. Any computer parts store should have these for about $5.