Computer keeps freezing...

Hi!

>> a) try a live linux CD, and see if it keels over as often
> a) no

If you're saying it didn't fail as often, time to reinstall Windows.

>> b) is the CPU fan actually spinning ?
> b) yes

That's probably OK then.

>> c) unplug and replug every "major" connection on the motherboard - the
>> contacts shouldn't oxidise, but if it's just a crap connection, this
>> might sort it
> c) done

Good.

>> d) run memtest86 on it (there are two variants from competing
>> suppliers, one of whom has a paid-for version available too) - you can
>> usually tell within a few seconds if the memory is flaky !
> d) big hassle to get to work, easier to just smash computer.

Not likely. You could download memtest in much less time than it will take
to break the computer to the point where it won't run any more. The problem
you have sounds as though it is easily fixed. If you don't want to, just
give it away.

William