How do I find the corrupt component in my PC?

[Viperjts10]

I built my computer about 8 months ago, and I had had problems the past few months where the computer would freeze up, or restarting automatically or shut down completely.

A month ago, I replaced the RAM, thinking that was the problem, but that did not resolve my problem at all.

So, I'm thinking that maybe it's the motherboard, but could it be any other component?

I don't think the PSU could cause automatic restarts, i don't think the hard drive would do this either.

Basically, when I first boot up my computer, it'll go to that motherboard screen logo where you can press f10 for bios, or the delete button for safe mode etc.. And there have been times where the computer just froze on that screen.

Othertimes, I'll be playing a game, and minimize or something, and then the whole computer restarts by itself.

I'm not sure what's wrong, and I don't know which component would need to be replaced in my PC, so is there anyone who could help me figure out how I can decide what is wrong with my computer?

[infectedevol]

Check your temperatures..download PC Wizard 2008. also make sure everything is plugged in and nothings loose, it could be a loose wire or overheating..but overheating would cause it to freeze or just shutoff...not sure

[Shyster1]

Do you know if there's a logging function in the BIOS? Some BIOSes have a basic POST logging function that might give you a hint about what's going on.

[Viperjts10]

Originally Posted by infectedevol

Check your temperatures..download PC Wizard 2008. also make sure everything is plugged in and nothings loose, it could be a loose wire or overheating..but overheating would cause it to freeze or just shutoff...not sure

What should I check after I've downloaded the Wizard 2008 software? It shows a lot of information about the computer, but will it show me if anything is wrong with anything?

[magn3t0]

temperature is highly unlikely the problem if you say that going into the bios freezes up your computer. Sometimes you get bad mobo so try getting it exchanged if its still under warranty.

[Pulp]

This sounds like either the PSU or the motherboard. I'm leaning towards the motherboard.

[infectedevol]

When i built my computer..the heatsink wasnt on right and mine froze in the bios