Computer/electronic techie help needed!

[Mickey Nut 50]

I have a new HP (cheapest version) CPU. (XP) When it's connected to the network, it will flash "now you're connected" then "now you're not" ad infinitum. Sometimes it stays connected for all of 2 minutes!

Background: My old Gateway (which was our station server at one time) worked(s) well. No problem. (Microsoft 98)

When we connect the new CPU to the same cables, we have the above problem. However, if we move the CPU to the middle of the room, or take it into the conference room, or Lt's office, it works just fine.

The problem seems to be just in my little corner of the station. The only difference I can determine electronics-wise is the fact that the phone is also located in my little corner, and not in the other places where it works.

Is something not shielded enough?

Help - anyone! The Chief wants to move my work station to another spot in the training room. I would lose my cherished window spot, and also be much farther away from the Chief (my favorite boss) and much too close to the assistant chief (not my favorite by a long shot). I DON'T WANT TO MOVE!

 

[Dan Murphy]

 

[Boston Tea Party]

Have you tried posting this on the Tech Support Board? There are lots of geeks there.

I would ask my geek but he's out of the country at the moment.

Best of luck to you.

 

[nkjzmom]

DH says....there might be electrical interference coming from the wall wiring....try moving the PC away from the wall...

 

[jfulcer]

Three thoughts (in the same order I'd do them in):

1) I also agree with nkjzmom's DH. It could be electrical interference. Move the computer to the other side of the desk, or if it's on the floor put it on the desk (or vice versa).

2) The network card itself may be flaky. Even if it's working in other parts of the office, it's still suspect. Have another you can try and swap?

3) Lastly, the network card in the new computer could be more sensitive to problems with the network connection. If the wiring was not professionally done, it may be a good idea to rerun that drop. To test this theory, run a cable from a different network connection to your desk (it may need to be a Loooooooong cable). Does it still do it? No, then it's the wiring in some way. If yes, then it's the computer itself

 

[Mickey Nut 50]

Thanks for the ideas!
Jfulcer - yes, we have run a looong cable from the hub to the middle of the room - computer's ok. Moved the computer still attached to my desk - and no connection.

Sounds more and more like electric "leakage".

Another thing that came up today - I'm on the second floor, with our radio antenna behind me (on the roof) and the polkce antenna across the street - which puts my desk area in their path.

Could the radio waves be a problem?

The network card is integrated (I told you it was cheap). We sent back the first new computer feeling that it was the network card. I couldn't possibly have such good luck as to get two in a row with a bad network card?