Random Lock ups

[Chapin]

What are the most common causes for random lock ups in win98? I get this in newer systems, these are normal set ups, usually ms office and maybe some other business apps, but nothing really heavy to overload a new system that has the latest P III, and 64 or 128 megs of ram.
Does anybody else goes through this, and how do you get to the problem or solve the problem?

[3fingersalute]

Originally posted by Invisible_Man:
What are the most common causes for random lock ups in win98?

Installing it!!!!!


No seriously though, try different RAM, check for newer video drivers and check what programs you have loading on startup....these are just a few places to start!!

[DonJ]

I would double-check the CPU cooling fan...make sure it is powered up and turning properly...not loaded down with dust/dirt/hair balls, etc.

Also, my old video card used to cause hangups. It was an old Trident with 2MB onboard memory...now I've got an SiS with 8MB...no more problems.

Also, check in Device Manager for IRQ conflicts, errors, etc.

Just a couple of suggestions...Good Luck!
DonJ

[Sowulo]

Most common cause of random failures and other glitchey stuff I've been running into is defective ATX Power Supplies. Changed suppliers and no more problems.

[Antimatter]

Common causes of random lockups:
Incorrect RAM timings or mobo not supporting the RAM type.
Failed CPU voltage regulator often related to CPU overheating.
Windows 98 first edition!

Less Random:
Sound card legacy support conflicting with modem(most common) or other device.
Modem conflicting with COM2 in older systems(boot up problem generally).
Norton software.
McAfee antivirus.
Virus(Including MSOrifice).
Loads of other software.
In games, video or soundcard.

[condor]

Just add to your list network problems, any Remote Control software (SMS, CA Remotly possible et..)

also Microsoft Office Find Fast, IRQ conflicts, Power management issues (not 100% compaitble) driver issues.

Heat problesm (CPU, Chipset, RAM, VGA card..) and there's a long list..

[tiffin_tom]

One more cause for you

Power! I've seen so many instances of this that I can't even count. Customer has problems with random lockups, errors, etc., brings it into the shop, works fine. Customer gets it back home and BAM! The problem returns.

We then give the customer a UPS to try, the problem goes away and they may get this funny light on the UPS (Site Wiring Fault).

It's by far not the only cause, but is one of the biggies here.