Random Shutdowns

[Andrewcc]

So, my girlfriends computer has decided to start shutting down randomly. At first it was only once a week, then 2 or 3 times, and now it won't stay on for much more than 3 hours at a time. I consulted with Dr. Google and a few forums, but I can't figure out what the deal is.

Specs:
Athlon 2800+
ECS Mobo, specific model unknown (it's about 2.5 years old I think....her Ex did a [crappy] rebuild job for her)
MSI MX400 GPU
G.skill DDR PC3200
350 Watt Dell OEM PSU

Now, the RAM on this list is new, because I thought it might solve the problem, and I got a 512 stick of it for about 20 bucks. It didn't seem to help. The Dell power supply is out of my rig where it didn't do anything but web surf for about a month before it got replaced. In theory I could get a brand new PSU for her, but she doesn't really need any more power, and well, there shouldn't be anything wrong with it.

According to several scanners there are no virus' or spyware, and the two easiest fixes (PSU and RAM) didn't do anything. I'm at a loss here, can anyone help me out?

 

[cprince]

Overheating? Is the system well ventilated? Also, the motherboard could be on it way out.

 

[Andrewcc]

D'oh! I should have mentioned that in the first post. I had her take the side panel off and point a small fan at it, in case it was a thermal problem, and it didn't do anything, so I'm thinking it's not a temp problem. So with that....we're thinking maybe motherboard?

 

[TheStu]

I would say motherboard as well, since that connects everything in the system, that seems the most likely culprit.

However, it is good to hear that Dell stopped using proprietary PSUs.

 

[cprince]

yep, the motherboard.

 

[Andrewcc]

*sigh* glorious.
Alright, if you'll permit me one more question, with an old socket 754 system like this one, would it end up being better to just build a whole new box, or is it worth it to simply replace the motherboard. It doesn't get used for anything besides surfing the web, word processing and iTunes so in theory there isn't a need for any more power. On the other hand....it's always nice to have new, y'know?

 

[TheStu]

Since it is an old 754 box, you are talking about new everything basically if you desire to get completely current. New proc, RAM, Mobo, PSU (maybe), Vid Card... you get the idea.

just go ahead and try to find a new 754 mobo for it, perhaps on the FS/T forum here, or the Egg.

That should take care of the situation for you.

 

[Andrewcc]

Yeah, that's about what I figured. Thanks a lot for the help, you two.....I was out of ideas.