Thread: computer has been behaving stranger

Hi Dr CHIP. My computer has been behaving rather strangely for the past few days. Sometimes, it restarts in the middle of any work. It shows a blue screen for about 1 second and then the computer restarts. What could be the problem? Please explain.

This problem can arise because of many reasons. Check out each of the following possibilities and the remedies which could be related to your computer.

- The RAM and/or the memory slots could be dirty, corroded or loosely fitted. Clean the slots thoroughly using a brush and Isopropyl alcohol.

- The CPU fan could be dusty and causing the processor to overheat. Remove the CPU fan and clean it properly. Replace the CPU coolant paste and remount the fan.

- The power supply could be dusty and thus overheating and shutting down or failing. Use an air blower to clean the dust from inside.

- The hard drive could have allocation errors or bad sectors. Run 'chkdsk' or 'scandisk' on the hard drive and repair the errors if any.

- There could be a virus or some malware on your Pc. Use updated antivirus and antispyware tools to scan and clean the system.

- One or more files required by Windows may be missing or corrupt. Use the command 'SFC Iscann'ow' from 'Start I Run .. .' to repair the operating Systet" files. You may be prompted to insert the Windows installation disc.

- The main power plug of the computer could be loose or sparking. Check all connections to the computer. Ensure that the power is clean (without any spikes or voltage errors) and no other heavy duty electric equipment (AC, iron. etc) is connected to the same power line as that of the computer.

- A voltage stabilizer, UPS or inverter connected to the computer may be the caUse of concern too. Disconnect each one in order to eliminate suspicion, and check if the problem goes away.

- Outdated drivers and essential patches for the operating system can be causing problems. Downlaad the latest drivers for your system and always keep your OS up-to-date.

- Try booting into Safe Mode by pressing [F8] while the system is restarting and selecting 'Safe Mode' from the menu. If it works fine here. a virus or a bad hardware driver could be the problem. If Safe Mode does not work either, choose the last good working system restore point and see if it works. You need to repair Windows by using the original installation CD.

- If your system is still not working, then the last resort is to back up all your data. format your hard drive and reinstall Windows. If the problem persists, it is time to have your hardware inspected by a professional computer technician.