Time to buy ..

iviv

Yes, spend £1000 on a mac and rebuy copies of all the software you own so they run on mac, because you have a PC problem ¬_¬

However, I wouldn't trust XPs hardware updates, I find they tent to be rather out of date. I don't think the graphics drivers would be causing the problems, but its worth a try.

fwor

iviv wrote: »

I wouldn't trust XPs hardware updates, I find they tent to be rather out of date.

Agreed - they do, but it can work - I've solved an almost identical problem via that method.

Personally, I'd go to the manufacturers website and download their latest drivers, but explaining that process takes a bit longer...

iviv

True. I had to tell XP to stop trying to push some 2 year old ATI drivers on me when I had the latest ones.
Vista's is much better, though I'm guessing that they'll only provide microsoft signed drivers, a possible problem if you're running hardware thats not signed. Then again, it just means you have to go and hunt for it yourself.

LittleJo

Hi,
There has to be an answer.
I am doubtful about drivers as they would give a solid error.
The initial error I think causes the boot up scandisc errors.
If it were RAM it would not disapear, RAM check showed it OK.
A driver error would be solid.
I have regressed to last System restore point to no avail.
I am very careful with Windows updtaes as often they cause more problems that they fix
Thanks again, it will be something simple I bet.
Jo

fwor

LittleJo wrote: »

I have to reboot it and it takes several tries to get through scandisc.

Just noticed this from your OP.

Having to make several attempts to get through the disk check can surely mean only one thing: the HDD is going bad, possibly with some sectors just on the threshold of being readable?

iviv

See post #2 then post #4

Possible that the problem was missed by the tools, and the signs do point to it, but without buying a new hard drive, not sure what else you could do.

LittleJo

Hi,
Today everything works perfectly!!!!
Maybe we frightened it.
I think it is something on its way out, giving an intermittent error.
Everything is backed up and the search for a new PV has begun.
Anybody had dealings with PCSPECIALIST or CUSTOM PC SHOP, or can suggest anybody else they can recommend.
How do you decide upon a spec...
I only do this every 6 years so I can do with all the help I can get!!!
Jo

iviv

Well, when buying a new PC there are two main things to consider. First is what you are going to be using it for. Second is your budget. If you just browse the web, check your emails and write letters, then a nice cheap dell will do you fine, or maybe cheaper, a refurbished PC from pc world.