2 Computer related questions

[rajee]

First, when installing more ram do you need to stick with the same type and brand as the type and brand you already have installed or just stick to the same type eg DDR Ram vs SDRam?

Second question, Is the cause of Windows XP PCs self-rebooting a hardware problem ( over-heating for an example) or is it a software problem where too many programs/applications are running that are taking up too much and the computer ends up rebooting to correct a program or system error? Would installing more Ram/memory help this problem? 😕

 

[sadira]

First, when installing more ram do you need to stick with the same type and brand as the type and brand you already have installed or just stick to the same type eg DDR Ram vs SDRam?

It's my understanding you need to stick with the same kind. I'm no expert though.

Second question, Is the cause of Windows XP PCs self-rebooting a hardware problem ( over-heating for an example) or is it a software problem where too many programs/applications are running that are taking up too much and the computer ends up rebooting to correct a program or system error? Would installing more Ram/memory help this problem?

😕

If you've ruled out the rebooting issue being because of a virus or a worm and if it is due to overheating, you could try installing another cooling fan. Depending on your current system adding more memory may or may not help the situation.

just an idea <shrugs>

 

[rajee]

Thanks Sadira. I thought so myself that I needed to stick with DDR Ram cuz thats what I already have. Thats no prob. I was planning on getting DDR Ram anyway. I wasn't sure about the using 2 types of brands though.

I'm pretty sure it's not a virus or worm. I'll look into other cooling fans if it is a over-heating issue. 😎

 

[Ronley]

I think you want to stick with the same type of DDR ram, the speeds should match too. I haven't had to deal with DDR ram yet though, so not sure.

If your computer seems to be randomly rebooting, it's worth noting that by default when windows XP has a major system error (blue screen), it immediately reboots. I think you can turn it off by right clicking on my computer, hitting properties, selecting the advanced tab, under "start up and recovery" hit settings, and clear the "automatically restart" check box. The next time it blue screens, it should give a screen with more information. It usually also gives you an option to send an error report after a reboot caused by blue screen, sending that might also help.

Windows never seems to be able to stay completely stable forever. If the OS has been installed for a while, it may be time to re-install it. I end up re-installing my windows XP about once a year, but I tend to be rough on my software installs.

 

[Cave In]

In regards to your 2nd question a work colleague of mine has the same problem, his computer keeps overheating and shutting down. He added a second fan but it doesn't help and he ruled out a software isssue, so he thinks its thehardware, could be the same for you.

 

[rajee]

Thanks Ronley and Cave In.