Is it possible for a Pentium IV processor to die after 2.5 years of domestic use ? what could be the reasons ?
395918
The only way to know for sure is to test it on another motherboard. Short of a lightening strike or big power surge or short in the motherboard that would have caused smoke to come out... I just don't think all of it could fail. Was the processor actually tested, or was it just a guess?
244141
This question has two answers. The lifespan of the pc (ie. how long until it breaks) and useable lifespan (ie. how long it will be worth using before you need to upgrade or replace it).\n\nNormally a PC can run for anything up to 10 years. In South Africa (where I live) many people still own Pentium I pc's. They work (still) and run Windows 98 SE. But these PC's are of no use to a reputable business because they cannot handle the workload of Windows XP or CorelDraw. \n\nSo even if a PC can be 25 years old, you probably won't want to use it after more than 3 - 5 years.
302538
Does the post code on the LED actually say "87" or does it say "8.7" with the decimal lit up as well?\n\nIf it's "8.7", then the system is hanging while it's checking the core voltage, not telling you to check it. POST codes tell you the instruction the system is attempting to carry out when it fails.\n\nIf it's "87", then it's hanging as it tries to assign IRQ's to PCI devices.\n\nRegardless, I'd start by ripping out every component other than the basics (CPU, Memory, Video card), as well as re-installing those components to make sure they're all seated properly. See if you can get it to POST at that point. If so, proceed to add individual components one at a time, attempting to POST each time you add another component. I'd also check to make sure your front panel connectors are installed correctly to the header - PWR, HDD Activity, Reset SW, etc.\n\nAs a side note, I've heard about some motherboards having issues specifically related to the main connector of the Power Supply. Is your power supply's main connector 24-pin, 20+4-pin, or 20-pin with a 20-to-24 pin converter? If it's the latter, that could be the problem. Some 24-pin mobos just won't work right with a 20-to-24 pin converter. It could also be a voltage issue with the power supply itself.
144779
Check the Processor Fan first.. this is the main thing that creates problem.. If its not working or covered with dust, the processor is getting heated and is not responding.. Clean ur cabinet removing all the parts.. check the cabinet or SMPS(power supply) fans.. if these doesnt work, try reinstalling the operating system, backup all the data into a partition and format the partition having Operating System.. Data wont get lost.. and also restore default settings in BIOS if nothing goes right.. before restoring, write down all the settings..
633181
If it is recent one (Pentium+)\nIt has both\n\nFor description see links
170847
I had a good experience with Compaq.  My GF spilled water on my notebook.  It wouldn't turn on.  It was only a few months old.  Sent it back to Compaq (they sent me a shipping label with postage), they replaced the motherboard and upgraded a few things inside.  Then they shipped it back.  Didn't cost me a cent.  Turnaround time was about 10 days.  I've bought another Compaq since then.
21485
This could be a heat problem.  May one of the internal fans has stopped working, mainly the cpu fan.  If it was memory, you would get weird errors all the time.
888076
Same problem with me.I would think get a new mother board and slowly upgrade it as latest software often need higher specifications.
557693
And you won't find a new processor that fits it either.  The current Pentium 4/Pentium D processors use the LGA 775 socket.  But I don't like Intel processors anyway.  I like AMD and that wold be socket 939 for a good number of them.  If you're serious about upgrading you're going to have to get a new motherboard to fit the processor of your choice.  However, depending on the speed of the PIII you may be able to run XP if it is faster than say 700MHz but don't expect it to be a speeding bullet.  Not to mention that you'll need a minimum of 256MB of memory (I like having at least 512MB) but I won't touch a system that has less than 1GB.  As long as you aren't going to play games and already have sufficient memory, and I hate to say this because it goes against every fiber in my being, you'll be fine.
1169820
I'd start by looking at the fan and giving it a clean if its necessary.  If you've changed memory sticks, then they could be defective - there's always the option of a virus infection as well
532394
I have seen this problem with motherboard that had the capacitors across the power supply inputs go bad. Other possibilities are overheated processor, overloaded power supply, & misconfigured power schemes.
637189
There could be issue with the BIOS. Check for your computer Motherboard vendor.\n\nThere could be BIOS update.\n\nSynchronizing the time online is a temporary solution. Once you disconnect from Internet it will again go back.
54967
I had a similar problem caused by an overworked power supply unit (PSU) which was cheap to replace, but in reality it's not going to be possible to diagnose over the internet as it could be any one of a number of hardware or software issues.\n\nMy advice would be to call some independent PC repairers. Some offer a no fix no fee service & should tell you up front what the cost is likely to be.
167738
It all depends on what problem you have, could it be that\n1) the floppy belt is disconnected or the unit is not working properly.\n\n2)or the motherboard's battery is out.\n\nIf you read something like the first option you should buy a new unit. If the answer is two, you should open your pc and look for a round, watch like, battery and change it for a new one.\nEach battery lasts almost 3 to 5 years.\nIn my humble opinion and my experience, those are the steps to follow.
531817
Typically your machine should last anywhere from 3 to 5 years and possibly even beyond. I have a new PC, but I also use my old one and it's from 1999. It's got some quirks but it still runs pretty well. Old age will kill it eventually I know, but for the most part PCs should last a good long time. \n\nOne recommendation is to leave your computer running most of the time. You put more wear and tear on it by starting up and shutting it down than you do by just leaving it running, so if possible- just let it run.\n\nAlso after 3 or 4 years you're probably going to NEED a new machine anyhow, simply because there'll be a new version of Windows, new devices your computer can't accomodate, new software that can't run on older machines, etc.\n\nBut if you're just wondering how long you can expect your machine to run, I'd say if you take care of it, it could last at least 4 or 5 years and possibly more.
252039
The behavior you are describing is serious and is probably related either to a configuration with your motherboard, a problem with the CPU or similar.\n\nYou should definitely return it for service.
254966
Depending upon the frequency on how much you turn it on and off in a given time. The newer PCs motherboard does not completely shut down, but goes on deep standby mode, much of the power, even just a trickle, is applied under this condition through the boot sensing channels handled by the bios and accompanying chipsets and sub circuitry without supplying power to the major areas until needed, including the main CPU. any abrupt powering on and off may contribute some possibility of failure, but not necessarily immediate, and may take some time to evidence itself. The switching mechanisms had changed from basic mechanical to digital pulse actuated SCR transistors that are quite susceptible to voltage spikes. The most concern will be noted at the power junction between the power unit and the power interface circuitry on the motherboard. On these aspect much consideration really rely on the quality of what these components are made, and how the circuitry is designed entirely. Therefore, the quality of the components may have a real bearing on the possibility of any failure by repeatedly turning your PC on or off, that could cause a voltage spike at each transition.\n~meow