Long-lasting computer problem...help!

[DPolishSensation]

I've been having this problem for a while now. Before I get into the details here are my specs for my computer:

Soltek Mobo
Athlon XP 2500+
Volcano HSF
Buffalo Technology 512 MB Ram
Sapphire Radeon 9700 Pro
Allied 400W PSU
Skyhawk Aluminum Case

Well I first noticed the problem at a LAN party a few months ago. We were all gaming and next thing I know my computer cuts off. It actually doesn't cut off though. The screen goes black and I can hear the fans working but my monitor light is blinking like I have it turned off. I'm pretty positive its a heat issue. When I took the side of my case of at the LAN party my computer ran fine with no reboots. When I leave the side panel on, however, it randomly resets. My video card is hot to the touch and when the side panel is on, the side of the computer gets very hot as well. I can feel it though its an aluminum case. Does this sound like my video card overheating? Anyone else have this problem? All suggestions and comments welcomed! Thanks for your time.

 

[oldman420]

sounds like a heat problem to me if the side of your case gets hot you NEED better case cooling also it could be a power supply issue too. install some temp monitoring softwareand run some stability tests to see where the problem is
good luck

 

[DPolishSensation]

do you think its from the video card? personally I think its running way too hot...any good temp monitoring tools you can recommend to me?

 

[13black]

Basic thing is how many and where are the fans in your case? Fans should draw cool air in from the lower front and blow hot air out the back. My recomondation for temp monitoring is Motherboard Monitor. With it you can see what your case temps and processor temps are, hard drives too if they have a sensor built in. If you have good air circulation your PC should run cooler with the side cover on.

 

[oldman420]

yes mbm is a good general monitoring tool and i agree with dpolish the best cooling solution includes 1-2 fans lower front of case 1-2 fans upper rear of the case a side fan helps a good bit esp if it is over the agp slot. also a power supplythat has a fan is helpfull. its all about airflow baby

 

[DPolishSensation]

well I installed it and my temperature is reading 55 degrees (with the side of the case off). now trying to figure how to set it up for the rest of the components...

 

[13black]

Motherboard Monitor can be a little tricky to setup, especially the first time. If you go here to the motherboard list you can download the correct configuation file for your board.