New PC having lock-ups, Requesting assistance

[New2Computers]

I think its best if I first say this is the first PC that I've built.

I guess I should first describe my set-up..

I'm running a 1.2ghz AMD Thunderbird in a MSI K7 Master with 256mb DDR memory and a Leadtek Geforce2 Ultra, OS is Win2k.
I have the newest nvidia drivers, and I'm using the via 4.32v service-pack.

Now for the problem: my pc locks up about once every 2 hours, I mean a hard lock-up where pushing the power button in the front does nothing... I have to hit the switch on the back of the pc to cut off the power supply. I've been experiencing this in a game called Anarchy Online, but I'm not definate that it is related to the video card, though that was my first assumption.

I want horribly to get this fixed, I hope I didn't spend so much money to have a computer I am forced to cut the power to every 2 hours

 

[wfbberzerker]

install the via 4 in 1 drivers from their website and see if this helps
just a suggestion

 

[Thyme]

<< and I'm using the via 4.32v service-pack. >>


I think that's what he was talking about, PyroHale.

If it is only AO, have you installed the latest patch? If it is only AO, you may want to post in their forums or even attempt to consult their technical support.

 

[vbrtrmn]

When your PC locks up, if you hold the power button for about 5 seconds, it will shut down. Many ATX motherboards use this feature.

Okay, here's some suggestions:
1: Get the newest drivers for all hardware.
2: You're using Win2k, the newest service pack &amp; other updates.
3: Try a different RAM DIMM, if you have 2 128MB DIMMs, try using 1 for awhile, then switch to the other. Lock-ups are common with bad RAM.
4: I used to have several similar problems with the Sound Blaster Platinum Live card, new drivers fixed it.
5: Try a different video card.

 

[Thyme]

Also, have you installed service pack 2?

AO might be bad with Win2k though, so you might want to try dual booting to 98SE for AO.

 

[New2Computers]

Windows 2000 is updated as current as it can be.

I know lots of people running AO in Win2k without any problems, may just be my luck.

Would a game be able to lock up my entire pc to that point? I could see if I had to control-alt-delete it, or push the reset button, but I have to cut the entire power supply off...

Could it be my processor is overheating or something else or do you guys think it is probably just the game?

 

[wfbberzerker]

hehe my bad

could it be an overheating issue? doesnt seem like it, since the computer locks up after 2 hours and works again