Troubleshooting Computer Freeze (Lockup) Problems

How familiar does the following sound? Your computer was working fine, but then suddenly started locking up (aka hanging or freezing), rebooting itself (crashing) or shutting down spontaneously? If you know only too well what I am talking about, then read on! Performing the simple steps below can fix the majority of lockup cases.

1. Check for recently installed software or hardware.
If the lockups started to happen after you installed a new peace of hardware, new software program, or new drivers, uninstall it and see if the problem goes away.

2. Run your antivirus program.
One of the first things to do in the case of sudden lockups is to run your antivirus program. Check your antivirus manufacturer's website for updates and latest virus definition files. (This is absolutely necessary, outdated antivirus is not going to be of any use!) If you don't have antivirus software installed - or if updates are unavailable - run one of the web-based antivirus scans that some major antivirus vendors like Trend Micro are offering for free. You can find a comprehensive list of available web-based scans and free antivirus programs on http://www.free-antivirus.info.

3. Run some good spyware removal tool.
If your machine is not infected with any viruses, it is still possible that it has some harmful adware or spyware is present. Download and run some good spyware removal tool such as AdAware or Microsoft AntiSpyware. Check http://www.free-antivirus.info for a list of free spyware removal applications.

4. Check for free hard drive space.
When no viruses are found, check out free hard drive space on drive C:. Make sure there is more than 20% of free space available; low disk space can lead to random lockups.

5. Check for overheating.
Overheating is another known cause of lockups. It can be caused by problems with fans inside the case, dust buildup, or other cooling problems. Make sure the power supply fan and CPU fan are running and free of dust buildup. You can check the temperatures inside the case by running Motherboard monitor http://mbm.livewiredev.com - make sure the temperatures are within the preset limits. Be very careful while cleaning inside the computer case (use plastic vacuum crevice tool) and NEVER OPEN THE POWER SUPPLY CASE as it contains high voltage.

6. Check the hard disk.
Check the hard disk - it is possible that its logical structure is corrupted. To check the disk for errors, right-click on the disk C: icon in "My Computer", select the "Tools" tab, check all check boxes in the "Check disk options" field, and press the "Check now" button. It should ask whether you want to schedule the check next time you restart your computer - answer "Yes" and restart your PC. The check will be performed automatically after startup; it can take a while, so be patient. The program will attempt to fix some problems automatically ?however, if the hard disk is failing physically, it will need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to run Disk Defragmenter (located in Start Menu > Programs > Accessories > System Tools) to optimize data placement on the hard disk for increased performance and reliability.

7. Check the memory.
Sometimes random lockups can be attributed to the computer memory (RAM) starting to fail. You can test the memory by running Windows Memory Diagnostic that can be downloaded from http://oca.microsoft.com/en/windiag.asp. If memory problems are found, try re-seating the RAM (pull it out and plug it back in). If it doesn't work, replace the defective RAM.

8. Check for other hardware problems (advanced users).
More hardware-related problems can be diagnosed by running hardware tests from the Ultimate Boot CD that can be downloaded from http://www.ultimatebootcd.com. However, you should only use it if you know what are you doing - some programs on that CD can be dangerous when used inappropriately (for example, some of them can wipe the contents of your hard disk).

9. Update Windows and drivers.
Some lockups can be caused by outdated software components - update your windows and drives by running a windows update: http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com (it's good idea to run it regularly).

The above steps will help diagnose and eliminate the most common causes of lockups. Hundreds more of other possible scenarios need to be dealt with on a case-by-case basis, as it all goes down to your particular computer configuration. Asking on PC troubleshooting forums/newsgroups should help you figure out solutions to not-so-obvious lockup cases.

Michael Woodford is a computer expert from a team that runs HowToFixcomputers.com and CertFAQ.com.

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Choosing Broadband Services - A Guide For Businesses

With so many telecom services out there choosing the right one for your business can be challenging. Here is a guide to help you understand some of the main telecom choices that you have and what they mean to you.

The main types of lines available are T-1, DSL and OC circuits.

Generally speaking, faster speeds indicate larger bandwidth. The larger bandwidth is useful for large applications such as large data file transfers and streaming video. The large bandwidth also sets up your business to allow for future applications that may require additional bandwidth.

T1 - A high-speed digital connection that transmits data at a speed of 1.544Mbps. A T1 consists of 24 channels, which can be used for voice, data or a configuration of both. Each T1 can provide service for up to 50 to 100 phone users.

DSL - Digital subscriber line. A high-speed/broadband connection whose speed varies depending on the distance to the central office. The popularity of the DSL has been taken over by the T1. Unlike the T1, there are distance limitations. Cheaper than the T1, a DSL line is usually not covered by increased customer service like the T1.

T3 - A T3 is a high speed digital connection that transmits data at a speed of 43.232 megabits per second. The T3 is equivalent to 28 T1s. The T3 can handle even the most bandwidth intensive applications easily.

OC3 - Optical Carrier line that transmits at speeds up to 51.84 Mbps. The OC line uses optical fiber or SONET fiber optic to carry signals. The number behind the OC stands for the level of data transmission speed. An OC3 is equal to 84 T1s.

OC12 - An optical carrier line that transmits data at speeds of 622 megabits per second. This large bandwidth product is equal to 4 OC3's.

OC48 - A very large optical carrier that can transmit at speeds up to 2.5 gigabits per second. The OC48 is used for very large campus environments or as network backbones. The OC48 is equal to 4 OC12's.

Van Theodorou will help you slash your telecom expenses over 43% and assist or even become your telecom department at no cost to you. For a free analysis or phone consultation go his site for Voice T1 Service and wholesale long distance service.

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