[BC] computer lock up

[Jerry Mathis]

A couple of things not mentioned by others....

Many have mentioned checking the CPU fan to be sure it's running. ALSO, 
check it, and the heatsink, for accumulated dirt. If the fins are clogged 
with dirt, the CPU fan cannot do its job.

Does the fan stall out once in a while? This is hard to trace, without 
leaving the computer case open for quick visual verification. An advantage 
here is that, when a fan starts to go, it usually starts making noise.

Some have mentioned re-seating the memory sticks. Problems were known to 
develop if you have memory sticks with finger plating material that is 
different from the socket plating material. Although this is less a problem 
today than with older computers (you don't say how old your computer is), 
make sure your memory sticks and memory sockets both use the same material. 
It's either gold or tin. If they're different, some type of corrosion sets 
in, which will eventually insulate the connection. You can fix the problem, 
at least temporarily, by buffing the fingers on the memory stick with a 
pencil eraser. It's recommended  that you clean them with alcohol 
afterwards, and spraying the memory sockets with something like Cramolin. 
(This problem is a long shot, but a possibility.)

And don't discount problems with the power supply. Especially if the 
computer is 4 or 5 years old. If you have a scope, you can look at the PS 
outputs. Pay close attention to the 5 volt and 3 volt supplies. More than 
about 50mv of noise is a problem. Look for high frequency noise, not ripple.

Look on the motherboard for capacitors around the CPU. Are any of them 
bulging, or leaking a brown gooey substance at the base? There was a run of 
bad capacitors a few years ago that is just now showing up on some 
motherboards. Dell is spending millions on a recall.



Jerry Mathis
Clear Channel Radio, Tupelo & Meridian MS





>From: "John Vodenik" <jvodenik at sosinet.net>
>Reply-To: Broadcast Radio Mailing List <broadcast at radiolists.net>
>To: "Broadcast Mailing List" <broadcast at radiolists.net>
>Subject: [BC] computer lock up
>Date: Wed, 16 Nov 2005 09:39:12 -0800
>
>Greeting gathered bright minds, and lots smarter than I am type people.
>
>Not being a computer type person, just use it for e-mail and porn...I am 
>having a problem with the machine locking up.  I can only get it to operate 
>again by rebooting the thing, with the reset button on the computer case. 
>Locks in anywhere between 30 minutes and half a day after rebooting.
>
>That said, our "computer guy" out here at VOA said he thought it was a 
>hardware problem.  OK, I have disconnected the cable modem, no change.  
>Tried a different mouse, nothing.  Mouse is on USB port., it was on the PS2 
>port, still the same results. Haven't disconnected the keyboard as yet.  
>Scanner not plugged in, printer working OK.  That's about all I have 
>connected to the outside world, except for the sound card.
>
>I had been thinking maybe a virus or spyware.  Daily checks come up empty.  
>I did a system restore to about 6 weeks back, when everything was fine.  
>Still locking up.
>
>I need o get this figured out so I can go back on the air with my ham 
>station.  By the way..the porno comment was meant to get your attention.
>
>Thanks for any and all suggestions.
>
>John @ VOA / Delano
>
>Just you everyday radio whore.....
>my life....eat, sleep, make VERY BIG RF.  Gotta get a life.......
>
>_______________________________________________
>This is the BROADCAST mailing list
>To send to the list, email: broadcast at radiolists.net
>For sub changes, archives and info on this other lists: 
>http://www.radiolists.net/