Yes, even I need help...Computer Issues Not sure if this is the correct place to post this, but this really doesn't pertain to any Sims games, just an average computer error. Let's see where should I start... Computer Specs Pentium 4 3.2 Ghz ASUS P4P800E Motherboard 2 Gigs Memory ATI Radeon 256MB X800 Pro 320 GB HD Windows Vista 32bit All Drivers/OS up-to-date. My Problem For some strange reason, my computer randomly restarts itself at different times. I already unchecked the "Automatically Restart on Error" under "My Computer", so now it either locks up, freezes, or gives me a blue screen (with no error to tell what's going on!) I'm getting these errors whenever my screensaver comes on (I use the Bubbles screensave - had to disable it). I also get it sometimes while watching a DVD or Video in Full Screen Mode. My computer also froze/locked up in IE7 and also in Microsoft Outlook when I went to minimize or close out of the program. (When I minimized, it minimized halfway and froze (the window was in the style of the AERO 3D Flipping Mode). I also got this error during use of scanning with Ad-Aware...I cannot remember what I did, but either I switched tabs, minimized it or closed it and it locked up. Strangely, I've yet to lockup in any games, but I dont play them for long or often, so I cannot be sure of that. What I have done to try to solve this problem... Updated all drivers (including graphics card) Updated Vista with latest updates Ran MemTest (not MemTest86) and checked Memory. Appears to be good Ran SpeedFan and checked my CPU Temperature. Range is usually between 43C - 49C Reset Video Card options to factory default (had them set to high on everything) Scanned my computer with AVG - I'm good Scanned my Computer with Ad-Aware - good Scanned with Advance WindowsCare - good Things I still need to do... Test graphics card. Is there a program or a way to test this, or am I just going to have to replace it? It was a very expensive card and still is... I don't know what to do. Vista is actually pretty sweet, I really don't want to go back to XP before I find out what the true culprit really is. I don't think it is a Vista update either that caused this, but I could be wrong.
That is one thing I need to check, cannot remember it off the top of my head, but I do think it is either 400 or 450 WATTS. Also, I talked to some tech guys here at work...I'm going to uninstall all ATI software, get rid of all of the drivers and start fresh with some older version.
If its 400watts or 450watts max, then that's your problem. You're drawing too much power and your computer is detecting it as interrupted power and therefore needs to restart. Try getting at least a 500 watt SUSTAINED. Those are much better. Plus the max is really like 600
I'll check that when I get home. That could possibly be it. Do you know if they make a program that tells how much power consumption is going on with the PSU? *EDIT* Looks like the PSU power consumption can only be tested via hardware, not software... Are they all pretty much universal, right? I mean, I can go out and buy a 550 Watt and just plug it into my motherboard, knowing even though it is a little old it will still work? I guess this will be the next part to upgrading my computer.
I love you Josh.....in a totally heterosexual way, of course. Seriously though, as much as I try to help others out, I couldn't pinpoint my own problem! But I went out to buy a 650W powersupply, so that should last me for the next upgrade of computers. Speaking of upgrading, give me a holler on IM once you read this. I'm going to be doing some research on computer parts and need to know a few things.
PSUs are mostly easy to install, but be sure to take careful note of the suggested connections arrangements and don't lose all the spare connectors which will come in handy if you later change things around.
YeP... Mirelly, since you are on top of the tech-scene, let me ask you this. Do you know of a good decent priced Motherboard that will support a Core 2 Quad (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115018) along with DDR2 memory (I see DDR3 memory but those sticks are expensive!). I also want it to work with the latest graphics card...I'm not sure what that is, but I think it is the 512MB Nvida 8800.. I've never ordered from NewEgg before, which is what I believe everyone orders from.
