Computer shutting down

[kerry]

HI everyone

 

I hope someone can help me - and I hope I have posted this in the right forum!

 

I am running Windows Vista and about a month ago my monitor broke - it just went blank and wouldn't turn off, even when the plug was pulled out! I replaced the monitor and since then my computer either keeps freezing or shutting down and restarting, sometimes giving me the blue screen. If I leave it for 4 ot 5 days and try it again it works well for a day or two, then goes back to shutting down. I have cleaned the fan out in case it was this but it still keeps happening - can anyone help?:p

[KenB]

Hi,

 

When you switch on do you get any POST beeps ?

If so - how many and in what sequence ? ( one is normal )

 

You seem happy to go inside the case so ......

 

Switch off at the wall - leave the plug in to maintain the earth connection.

Locate the video card ( if there is one )

The monitor cable connects directly to it.

(if there is no removable card - you have onboard graphics)

Take it out and clean the contacts with a pencil eraser.

(there is usually one screw to take out)

Replace the card.

 

Take the RAM modules out. ( there are usually locking levers that need releasing )

Clean the contacts in the same manner.

Put just one back.

(the locking levers will click into place)

 

Try the system.

 

If you get the same problems - try the other module by itself.

[kerry]

Thanks, before I try that - could it be as simple as overheating as it was pointed out to me that I have moved the PC tower and it was sitting against the wall, with the vents against the wall so the air couldn't escape! There is usually a beep or 2 - I will try ot tonight and see what the sequence is!

[KenB]

Hi Kerry,

 

It could be overheating causing your system to shut down - if it is the vents then I would expect the machine to boot up normally then after a period of time ( as the heat builds up ) shut down. This, from your description, seems to be the case.

 

It doesn't, however, explain why it takes 4-5 days before you can boot up again.

 

Move the case so that the vents are clear of the wall.

 

You could, ( to make absolutely sure it is or isn't overheating ) remove the side panel and run the system with the panel off.

 

Still remove the RAM and Video card and make sure that the contacts are clean and the cards seated correctly.

[kerry]

Thanks very much- I'll give all this a try this week