System Stops Responding
I am using windows xp operating system. I am having a old computer Pentium 3 with 1.0 ghz , 256 mb ram, 40 gb HDD.
My system freezes completely while working.
No key stroke will work.
HDD light will also not blink.
While working when I checked the CPU USAGE ,it is going up to 100 % and is staying there.
I thought that might me OS problem. So I was reinstalling the software. When I went to BIos, to change the first boot preference. Suddenly system freezes with same problem. Now my question is there any problem with RAM ,hardisk, Motherboard or processor. I think its RAM. Please advise shall I change the RAM.
-question by Saud Ahmed Khan
-----------ADMIN REPLY--------------
It can be due to RAM problem.
There is a program called "Memtest".
If you run this program from a floppy using a re-boot, it will scan your entire RAM.
It is a very time consuming process so beware.
You can use 1 PASS scan and check your overall RAM first.
Then you can use 3 PASS scan and do a final check of your RAM sticks and leave the PC desk for 3-4 hours.
The time taken for scan depends on the AMOUNT of RAM and its SPEED.
MEMTEST is usually available on LINUX BOOT CDs. If you happen to have them, just try any linux boot cd and switch to COMMAND LINE on bootup.
Use HELP command and find how to run memtest.
-Shree (Admin: Trap17.com)
