winXP weird crashes help fast

[Stylez]

ok windowsXP Pro(non sp1) will crash on me randomly sometimes when playing games and somtimes just chattin on aim or checking email or whatever I"m doing.
the screen will have a bunch of colors (like nintendo when the console messes up) just a bunch of blocks wiht diff colors and the cursor turns into a bunch of blocks and the mp3 will play and skip for a lil bit. if i hit the reset button the comp starts up withe the screen all messed up with the blocks and you can see the video card and memory and all that stuff but the blocks are on top of it
i have to fully turn off the comp to get it working normal again
nothing is overclocked
system specs

1700XP
epox8kha+ kt266a
WD 80GB SE 8meg cache
gainward GF4 TI 4200 64megs nothing
audigy
256ddr i think two diff brands but same type of ram (128-128)
link sys NIC

 

[KH85]

sounds pretty funky

i havenot got a clue but it would be an idea to install SP1 and get the latest drivers for everythink cant think of everything else....

enjoy fixing it

 

[Stylez]

ok

 

[Mem]

Could be anything causing that,but I would check your GF4 card is fully seated and kept cooled,might have ram on the card getting too hot,other things like get all the updates for XP.Also I would check PSU as well,make sure the voltage is stable and not dropping voltage or going faulty.You could also try your PC with a different video card and see if the same problem happens,it will help you narrow the field.

 

[TD77077]

Stylez

There is a specific problem with Gainward GF4 4200 cards that leads to the exact symptoms you are experiencing. The problem is, I can't remember what the solution is, possibly a driver update, or maybe an RMA. You can look at Newegg.com under the comments for the Gainward GF4 4200 for more info.

 

[igiveup]

There is a patch for games crashing Xp that was just posted on Windows Update earlier this week. Check it out. I also agree it could be your video card drivers. Check the game's forum if it is only one title that is bombing on you.

 

[Stylez]

thanks for the replies and gainward cards do have a problem and they said i can rma it