I have been getting really bugged about this. For a long time now my XP Media Center Edition '05 has been shutting down randomly and I have done everything to try to solve it.
I've tried a virus scan and I got nothing...
I've tried to clean the vents on my computer case with an air blower and I got nothing...
I've tried to clean the useless programs out of my computer an I got nothing...
I will try to
Open the case and clean the internal fans...
To clean all the dust around my computer...
To move my computer from the cramped space it has to live with everyday...
If you have anything you can think of to fix my computer please give it. I am so despite. Have any questions? I'll try to answer. THANKS!
Open the properties of My Computer > click advanced tab > click settings under the Startup and Recovery section > under System Failure section uncheck automatic restart.
If it is a software issue (like a program or driver) then this will give you an error message with an error code that can be used for troubleshooting.
Most likely it is a problem with the power supply. Start with that first, try switching it out with another one to see if it resolves the issue.
Also, are the shutdowns happening roughly in the same time periord or are they just literally randomly happening (like it will shutdown in a couple of hours, and the next time in like a day)
The shutdowns are random. It could be after 30 min of being on one day and it could be five hours the next. For my power supply I use a power strip plugged into a normal house outlet that has gone through two computers and is about ten years old!
That is a surge protector. The power supply is the device that the power cable plugs into on the computer case. And if your surge protector is that old i doubt that it is still offering protection. They only last for about 2 years at the most.
I've narrowed it down and the variables that could be causeing my computer to shut down is...
Where the computer is- my computer is in a cramped space and needs to be moved into a more open area...
The dust around my computer- i really need to clean the back of my desk...
The dust in my computer-
That last variable is the one that's bugging me. Should I open the outer casing myself and carefully clean the insides or take it to a professional and have them clean it?
If you have any other ideas please give them, take anything away from my list please do so, and please answer about cleaning the insides of my computer!
Okay, I will first try to open the case and clean it manually and if that doesn't work get a new power supply. We aren't done but we are winning! Thank you all for the help!
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