I have an AMD Athlon 2200 , 256 MB RAM PC. Recently I've facing the problem that in the middle of some work, like running Media Player or Installing new Software or running Virus/Spyware scan, the computer suddenly switches off without any warning. There are no error msgs. The computer has to be powered on again to reboot. while rebooting, sometimes it runs Checkdisk and sometimes doesn't.

It could be a few issues, for starters:
1. Overheating - check inside your computer case and make sure it is dust free. Also make sure all the fans are turning when you power it up.

2. A failing power-supply.

I would first see about the dust and fans. If it all looks clean and working, you may want to consider purchasing (cheap) a new power supply - especially if you have, over time, added new components (usb devices, cd burners, dvdrom, etc). I would be looking into at least a 400W supply.

First try to ascertain if it's hardware or software (O/S) related.

Are all fans running?

Is there dust buildup on the PS fan/intake vents, CPU fan/heatsink?

Faulty memory (or seemingly faulty) can have this symptom. Try removing and reseating the memory sticks. This will help clean oxide from the pin contacts, which can indicate a fault.

Other hardware which may be starting to fail can also be at play here. Try downloading the hard disk manufacturers diagnostic tools and running full tests on the drive(s).

Download the appropriate file(s). Place a blank, formatted floppy in your drive and click on the downloaded file to create the tools disk on your floppy. Don't just copy the downloaded file to a floppy, it has to be run to create the tools disk.

To gather all sorts of information regarding your system, download and run Everest Home Edition. You can create a reference report document (text or HTML) which provides a lot of info as well as providing links to the various hardware manufacturers of the system components.

Looks like bradly beat me to the punch while I was typing. ;>)

Bradly, it's not a good idea to post an email address directly on the site. Just a heads up.

Hi Dan, Thanks!
The "no_spam_" should keep those spam spiders at bay

Originally Posted by souvMFE

I have an AMD Athlon 2200 , 256 MB RAM PC. Recently I've facing the problem that in the middle of some work, like running Media Player or Installing new Software or running Virus/Spyware scan, the computer suddenly switches off without any warning. There are no error msgs. The computer has to be powered on again to reboot. while rebooting, sometimes it runs Checkdisk and sometimes doesn't.

To check your dump logs if any were created do the following:

Go to start | search (type in) .dmp
Note the location of your latest .dmp file.

Then:

1) Download and install the
Debugging Tools from Microsoft
2) Download and install this
debugwiz
3) Open the Wiz & Browse to, or paste in the path to, your latest .dmp file.
4) After the Wiz creates a Text document attach it back to this thread.