Computer beeps when resource-heavy processes run

[junkerman123]

Hello,

I am having an issue where when I run a resource-heavy process for a while (like compiling something, or encoding video, etc), my PC starts to beep (one high beep, one low one, over an over again). Sometimes it continues to beep indefinitely...sometimes it stops beeping after a little while, sometimes it shuts down.

I am thinking it may be an issue with the RAM sticks, because I have two 512mb sticks in there but the pc is only saying it has 512mb RAM. However, I am not sure what to do next to troubleshoot. Any help is much appreciated.

Thanks

 

[CoinOperatedBoy]

Provide system specs... And when you say the "pc" is saying it has 512MB, do you mean it only recognizes that much in the BIOS? In Windows? Post a CPU-Z screenshot of the memory tab if you can.

 

[bwatson283]

Some mobos provide fan speed and temperature threshold beeps.
Check the fan speeds, look at the CPU fan speed. see if it running low speeds. might indicate a failing fan.
Temps sensors beeps when heat climbs. Since it happens when you put the system under heavy load, it might be a CPU temp warning.

 

[junkerman123]

its a P4 3.0ghz running winxp sp2, geforce 7800gs vid card, two hard drives, 500watt psu. windows sees 512mb, BIOS sees 512 as well. I believe the mobo is an abit IS7.

 

[junkerman123]

bwatson: how do I check the speeds except for 'eyeballing'? Everything seems fine in there. Are there any apps for checking CPU temp?

 

[bwatson283]

http://www.almico.com/sfdownload.php

 

[CoinOperatedBoy]

its a P4 3.0ghz running winxp sp2, geforce 7800gs vid card, two hard drives, 500watt psu. windows sees 512mb, BIOS sees 512 as well. I believe the mobo is an abit IS7.

What motherboard and BIOS type? You might be able to look up the beep codes...

Try booting with a single stick of RAM. If it works, swap for the other.

Also try bwatson's advice and check your fan speeds & system temps.

 

[pcgeek11]

The system is reaching a temperature alarm setting.

 

[daniel49]

It could also be a fluctuation on one rail of the voltage.
I had a 5v rail that would fluctuate just enough to set off my alarm.
Does your MB have monitoring software and sensors?