alt.comp.hardware.pc-homebuilt Google Group

Re: Hardware problem - RAM or MOBO?

2009-11-22T07:58:17Z

It probably means the list on the web site is not up to date. Although
sometimes, you can see messages on the BIOS screen that would suggest to
you the BIOS isn't happy. (Like updating NVRAM on every startup.)
The P16 BIOS says "Update CPU Micro Code", which is a way of saying
they've added some (unknown) new CPU support. The CPUSupport web page

Re: Hardware problem - RAM or MOBO?

2009-11-22T07:46:02Z

2nd power supply (I was at 550, which was at the low end of
recommended, and it seemed that plugging in another HD was causing
problems.
BIOS - I've got the latest from their site, though it's hard to tell
when it's from. (p16). I have no idea about over/undervolting the
RAM, especially if that's going to void the warranty.

Re: New Window 7 build

2009-11-22T05:14:07Z

Ron wrote:
Paul,
I've read through everything you provided and found it easy to
understand and follow. I believe I'll stay with the E8500 and not fret
about 64-bit processing. I don't have any real plans for anything as
intensive as video authoring, so the two cores should be fine. I may
eventually upgrade from CS2 to CS(x), but as a semi-retired pro, I'm

Re: ALWAYS close USB flash drive before removing?

2009-11-22T03:10:53Z

On Sat, 21 Nov 2009 21:02:30 +0000 (UTC), Jerry Peters
Which is like saying "I'll wear my tin-foil cap just in case
aliens come".
I do feel sympathy for those who live in such mindless
conditions... they:
A) Trust MS with their data in the first place.
B) Don't trust that when MS claims you can leave it set for

Re: New Window 7 build

2009-11-22T02:37:32Z

Paul wrote:
Big snip
Many thanks for the heads up on CPUs. Since I already have the 32-bit OS
and most of my familiar s/w is the same, I had a feeling I'd probably
stay there. The CPU is another story. You've given me some excellent
ways to make a reasoned decision, and I'll go through these later tonight.

Re: New Window 7 build

2009-11-22T01:49:46Z

Ron wrote:
First, when buying Intel processors, you should find as much info as
you can about the feature set.
The various processor families are here.
[link]
The reason for visiting there, is to make sure you buy a processor that
"has all the tick marks". What are the important tick marks ? Let's

Re: Hardware problem - RAM or MOBO?

2009-11-22T00:52:31Z

Is your BIOS flashed up to date ? It looks like their last BIOS was
issued a year ago. Sometimes a different BIOS can give entirely
different observable stability. Read the warnings in the flash
descriptions here, as to what Foxconn tools not to use, to update
the flash. (There appears to be an 8 pin serial SPI flash chip,

Re: Mobo vs PS problem

2009-11-22T00:20:05Z

In terms of things to look at, if the motherboard had a LED that
monitored +5VSB, I might watch that during a scroll-related failure.
+5VSB should never blink or glitch. Asus motherboards generally all
have a LED fitted to +5VSB, which is a convenient warning that the
motherboard still has power. Other brands, aren't likely to provide that.

Re: New Window 7 build

2009-11-21T22:55:22Z

Ron wrote:
Should have mentioned I'll add another HD after the initial setup, but
not for RAID. I back up to my server.
Ron

New Window 7 build

2009-11-21T22:52:12Z

For the first time in quite a while, I'm assembling a primary desktop
strictly to run Win 7 Ultimate (32-bit). I acquired the OS when I was a
Technet subscriber and hadn't worked with 64-bit systems much, so 32-bit
was my first choice. After reflection, I may eventually go the 64-bit
Win 7 Professional route, but that's not on the plate yet.

Re: microsoft.public.windowsxp.general

2009-11-21T22:24:36Z

No. A repair install reverts XP to the version on the CD, which is why
it's actually useful. It's not a reliable fix for this sort of problem
though - I think you'd have a better chance by obtaining a copy of ERD
Commander 2005 and running System Restore from that.

Re: microsoft.public.windowsxp.general

2009-11-21T21:55:55Z

Will hotfixes I have already applied survive the Repair
Installation?

Re: Hardware problem - RAM or MOBO?

2009-11-21T21:33:34Z

It could be RAM, motherboard or power supply. Sometimes the power supply
connector does not make good contact and gets better if moved. Do you have
the latest BIOS for your motherboard? It has been my experience that Memtest
errors were always the RAM. Can you over volt the RAM or lower the frequency

Re: ALWAYS close USB flash drive before removing?

2009-11-21T21:02:30Z

Until you *do*, of course.
Jerry

Re: A long shot...

2009-11-21T20:53:25Z

Dense cardboard wrapped in aluminum foil and covered in wide clear tape will
work as well once you cut the proper holes with a sharp knife..