Computer freezes with video

[Senpuu]

I've been having this problem for about 2 months now... it will sometimes play a video, but the majority of the time it crashes. It also crashes when I try to play Exteel and League of Legends. And it's crashed when installing a few programs (most recently with iTunes). At first I thought it was a virus, as it started happening shortly after a friend used my computer to browse the web and turned off noscript. Eventually I gave up on that train of thought when I was unable to find it with conventional free anti-vir and anti-malware programs. I was about ready to make a clean start of it anyway, so I backed up my data, wiped my HD, and reinstalled my OS (Vista Ultimate). On a clean install, before plugging in a flash drive or an external HD (which I reasoned could lead to the previous infection if it was viral), the problem was still there. I have an SLI set up (two 260s), so I figured since the problem seemed to mostly present itself on video play back and gaming applications, I'd try to use each card individually and see if there was a problem there. No dice.

That's where I'm at now with my problem. I'd appreciate guesses on what it could be and suggestions on my next course of action... I was going to run a MemTest next...

My specs:
CPU: i7 920
PSU: BFG 800W ES-800
Mobo: ASUS P6T Deluxe
RAM: OCZ 3x 2GB DDR3 1600
GPUs: EVGA GTX 260 216

 

[dfnkt]

Memtest is a solid choice. I had similar issues that i fought for 3 months before determining it was bad ram. A quick RMA to corsair fixed that and it's been smooth sailing ever since. Set memtest to run and let it go over night for 8+ hours.

 

[ElenaP]

In addition to memory test I would suggest you to consider an overheating issue. Get SpeedFan and check the CPU temperature. Video overheat is less likely because the video card is idling when you are installing the software.

 

[Senpuu]

I ran MemTest and it turned out okay. I checked my fan speeds, core temps, and all that other good stuff. No problems. It turns out that I didn't check my graphics cards thoroughly enough... fixed my problem, but now have a defective 260 216. What should I do with it? Obviously I can't sell a broken card, but is there any way to get it repaired for free from nVidia or EVGA?

 

[OILFIELDTRASH]

Unless you are the original owner evga won't warranty the card. I think it's only a year warranty if you don't register it. Contact evga. There is no repairing a video card also. They just get replaced.

 

[IamThomas]

I am having a similar issue, which I attributed to internet video at first. Basically the system would lock up for a split second, and make a strong buzzing noise, then return to normal.

I'll run memtest. I doubt it is an overheating issue, since the problem occurs infrequently, and does not progressively get worse.