New computer freezing about 5 minutes into games or playing music...

[Red]

Case/PSU: CadEdge TS1
Mobo: Shuttle AN35-Ultra 400
CPU: Athlon 2600+ @ 333mhz fsb, Arctic Silver 5 and a whisper rock II
RAM: 2 x 256 PC2700, generic brands if I remember
Video: BFG Tech. TI-4200, 128mb AGP
No optical drives
60 GB WD Hard drive

Computer is locking up after about 5 minutes of use... has happened while playing an MP3 and consistently happens about 5 minutes into a game. Any ideas? For a client...

 

[samuch]

Run some thorough tests on the memory and processor. Make sure nothing is overclocked as well.

 

[Red]

Yeah, nothing is overclocked... memory and CPU are at 333 fsb. Which tests should I perform? I've got to make an onsite visit to try to straighten it out.

 

[samuch]

I'd say burn a copy of Ultimate Boot CD as it tons of diagnostic tools. http://ubcd.sourceforge.net/
Just burn that, go to the computer, enter bios and make sure it boots from CD first, reboot and go through the tests. Of course try it on your comp first to make sure it works and which tests you'll wanna use. Good luck!

 

[Red]

Thanks samuch! I think I installed the mobo drivers off the CD and those might be a little old as well. Any recommended drivers for Nforce2 ultra boards? Just use the latest ones of their site?

 

[samuch]

Definitely use those off the site. Had many problems with NForce boards that didn't have most up to date drivers. That's step number 1 on gettin' the bad boy running!