Computers and Technology

One of the most annoying problems a PC users faces is computer crashes. This problem is particularly frustrating because it interrupts all programs running and collapses the entire system. Windows Vista is Microsoft's most powerful and stable operating system. However, like all new software, it is not complete and filled with bugs. This is a formula that will cause innumerable computer crashes. But, computer crashes are not always the fault of your operating system. The user shares a large amount of blame. Poorly maintained PCs can build up damaging corrupt files and coding errors. Also dust particles can clog fans and produce heat. All these are elements that will eventually lead to computer crashes. This article hopes to give you enough information to avoid future problems and repair current ones.

The Top 4 Reasons For Computer Crashes.

#1 Reason for Computer Crashes: TOO HOT

Problem: Computer components are more powerful than ever. A piece of silicon hardware can produce an enormous amount of heat. However, your computer is usually constructed to manage perfectly regardless of high temperatures. When dust is added to your hardware, it creates an form of insulation that traps heat instead of ventilating it properly. This is the most common cause of computer crashes. If you see your computer fan clogged with cake like dust, you have created an environment for constant computer crashes due to overheating.

Solution: Remove the computer case and use a can of compressed air to blow out all the dust in the case. Make sure to completely clean the fan. Be careful not to dislodge any wires or components during the process.

#2 Reason for Computer Crashes: Bad Drivers

Problem: Computer crashes are often caused by system drivers not functioning properly. The driver provides a link between your software and hardware. If your operating system can not communicate with the hardware it shuts down and re-attempts to contact the driver during the start up process.

Solution: Updating the driver or troubleshooting it may eliminate this problem. Check your device drivers for any errors which are indicated by an yellow exclamation mark or an X. Follow the below instructions to evaluate the driver:

1.Click "Start"

2.Click "Control Panel"

3.Click "System"

4.In the System menu, click the "hardware" tab

5.Click Device Manager to bring up a full list of hardware drivers.

6.Right click and choose "Properties" to evaluate the status and troubleshoot the hardware device.

In Vista you can reach the the device manager the following method:

1.Click "Start"

2.Click "Control Panel"

3.Click "Hardware and Sound"

4.Click "Device Manager"

#3 Reason for Computer Crashes: Bad Power Supply

Problem: Most people are completely unaware that their computer has an internal power supply. The Power Supply Unit (PSU) problems are usually indicated by your PC's inability to boot or use RAM. In this case, pressing the power button produces a blank or blue screen. When the power supply goes bad, your RAM and graphic card begin to malfunction. The final result is your computer crashes when Windows demands a large amount of power.

Solution: PSUs are very easy to replace. If you are a gamer who puts high demands on your system with large amount of RAM and high powered graphics cards, you should definitely upgrade to bigger power supply unit.

#4 Reason for Computer Crashes: Corrupt Files

Problem: Many programs, especially ones with online access have encoding problems. Not to mention malware which is purposely coded to disrupt your system. They leave broken foot prints in many areas of your PC memory. However, once these programs are disengaged or removed from your computer, it leaves the error filled tags which also are known as corrupt files. Direct Link Library files, Dlls, are files that are shared by multiple programs and are especially sensitive to damage. If one rogue programs damages a vital dll file, registry file or any essential process, it can cause computer crashes.

Solution: You can repair these files if you are in possession of your original Windows CD. Both XP and Vista offer a wonderful scan and repair tool that can usually repair your disrupted system and stops computer crashes.

How to use Window's SFC Scan and Repair command:

1.Click Start

2. Right Click the Command Prompt or type cmd

3. Type sfc/scannow

4. The tool will scan for damaged files. When prompted provide the Windows original disk for repair.

Remember that computer crashes are not random occurrences. There is a source for this fatal error. You just have to pin point and discover the cause. Remember to always update drivers when you have installed new hardware or any resource intensive software. Also show your PC love and care by cleaning it's external and internal parts.