PC keeps switching off

huddsta

Hello
I've got a PC with an AMD 3200, 512mb ram running XP.
When ever I run any demanding programs (games, 3D CAD stuff) the computer dies. Just switches off.
I've previously put a large desk fan pointing into the case and that has heped it keep running.
I've got several little PC fans nut they obviouslt are not doing the job.

Anyone got suggestions what to do?

frogula

Sounds like your processor fan is faulty/clogged up. The computer switches off as an automatic cut out to prevent damage to the processor by overheating.

Try blowing some canned air through the processor fan inside the case, see if that helps by dislodging dust, if not you will need a replacement heatsink & fan.

frog

huddsta

That's what I though. I've tried cleaning in out but it didn't help. New heatsink time.

x_Wilco_x

Could be the power supply - I had a similar problem when running demanding applications on mine and fixed the problem by upgrading the power supply unit...

Chas

My daughter's PC is doing exactly the same thing - I've taken it back where it came from & was delighted to discover it is still under warranty, even though it's 15 months old.

They had a quick look at it & said they think the problem is caused by dust.

Hopefully it will be back tomorrow - I'll let you know how I get on.

CHR15

Processor fan is the obvious first port of call.

Leaving the side panel off should pretty much eliminate the cause being Case fans. This only leaves Processor and Graphics Card Fan (if it has one)

Power Supply is another common cause but it's an expensive method of fault finding (especially if it isn't the cause)

Dust willl not help matters but it will have to be pretty well caked up to be the root cause.

You could also look in your BIOS settings. The threshold temperature for an automatic restart may well be set too low.
You could try raising the threshold level in small steps until it no longer restarts.
You could even turn this feature off but it's not recommended as it's a protection feature.

The specs of your machine are okay but the restarts are during graphics applications but you dont mention which graphics card you have.

If it's onboard graphics, you should really get hold of a dedicated card as that seems to be what you are using the PC for.

huddsta

Righto, the graphics cards is a Nvida Geforce FX 5700VE if that makes any difference.
I couldn't see an option to change the cut off temperature in the bios.

CHR15

Okay, the graphics card isn't a flyer but it should be okay for most apps, certainly shouldnt be reebooting the PC.

Have you updated the drivers for it? This is always worth a go (its free!):

Nvidia:

http://www.nvidia.co.uk/object/winxp_2k_93.71_uk.html

huddsta

Is it not? I thought it was ok, I'll give it a go. Thanks

papito

Hi, Not sure to open a new thread or reply here, but I have smae problem, Though my PC turns Off after a few seconds I power it ON,
SOmetime I manage to see Windows loaded, but then it turns OFF, but the light of the switch is still on. I have to disconect form wall and connected again in order to turn it on again, but still not working, Could it the power supply? Thanks

frogula

CHR15 wrote:

Power Supply is another common cause but it's an expensive method of fault finding (especially if it isn't the cause)

A 400w powersupply will set you back around £7 if you buy online, could be a lot worse IMHO.