Computer Tech People---Question for you?

[Pembo]

When my computer freezes, I hit ctrl-alt-del, sometimes I get the box to shut down the unresponsive program other times NOTHING happens.

I tried to turn off my tower but it won't shut off, I have a Dell. My Gateway I could turn off.

So I end up turning off the power strip.

Is that bad for my computer? What else can I do?

I hate when it freezes..............

 

[browneyes]

If you push the power or reset button for 5-8 seconds, the computer will shut down.

 

[Steve H.]

I do the same thing when necessary, Pembo. Is it bad for the computer? For the most part, no -- Windows will (should) recognize that an abnormal shutdown occurred and check for errors on your computer the next time you start it up.

 

[LarryE]

actually hard shutdowns can do damage to hardware such as hard drives as they half to shut off immediately then spin back up when repowered.

 

[JoNo]

The real question is, Is the computer freezing up just randomly or when you run a certain application / program? Usually hard shutdowns (so called b/c you have to power the comp. down) USUALLY don't have bad side-effects; but if it is happening a lot, I think you should let us know so we can try & help ya out.

 

[RUDisney]

What version of windows are you using? We have had this happen frequently with 95/98 users. Those who have 2000, NT, and XP installed don't have that problem.

 

[Cricket2]

Originally posted by RUDisney
What version of windows are you using? We have had this happen frequently with 95/98 users. Those who have 2000, NT, and XP installed don't have that problem.

Yeah, I wish

 

[caitycaity]

Those who have 2000, NT, and XP installed don't have that problem.

the computers at my office and at home must not have gotten that memo.

 

[RUDisney]

I didn't mean never, but the reduction in system freezes is astounding from 95/98 to the newer generations. Unfortunately, due to system constraints of other software packages, we haven't been able to install XP on all of our PCs yet, but everyone is looking forward to a more stable windows platform.... but I guess stable and windows together IS somewhat of an oxymoron.

 

[Pembo]

Thank you all! I have XP and the freeze today came from using my new HP PSC and trying to do 3 other things at the same time.