Re: Computer Problem again
 

I'm gonna take it back to the shop that fixed it on Monday. They installed a brand new HD in December, along with updated anti-virus software. If the power supply was a potential problem, I would have expected the guy to mention it in December.

Fortunately, I do have a current backup this time. So I shouldn't lose much. I'll just have to bust ass tomorrow to get my assignments done.

In the meantime, I'm using the laptop I bought after the last crash.

Re: Computer Problem again
 

You can verify whether your power supply is an issue by estimating your power requirements. There are several calculators on-line that will ask for your hardware and then tell you the power requirements... so for 2 hard drives, 2 CD/DVD drives, this much memory, etc....

Compare that to your actual PSU and see where you stand. The PSU can't be too big... it just won't use the excess. It can be too small, however... were I building a machine, I wouldn't put in less than a 500watt PSU. But that's me... ;)

Backups... good... :D

Re: Computer Problem again
 

I doubt its your wattage, either ways, PSU's are more about the rails nowadays. The problem could be that the PSU is dying, but I don't think it is that it cannot handle your system. Again, this could be a HD issue too, or even a virus/malware issue like someone mentioned. You're doing the right thing by bringing it to someone IRL, like I said, all we can provide are educated guesses over the web.

Re: Computer Problem again
 

My main reason for bringing it here was the hope that it might be a simple solution - like restart in Safe Mode, do "x" and try to restart in Normal Mode.

When the PC comes up, the only thing that shows up is the screen giving me the option to start in Safe Mode, Normal, or Start with Last Good Settings.

I've tried all of those and the PC just comes back to that screen again. So I'm taking it back to the guy who worked on it 3 months ago.

Thanks for the input, though. I sincerely appreciate all the thoughts and advice.

Re: Computer Problem again
 

Do you fell confident opening it up? It might be worth checking to see if all the plugs are fully seated.

If you do, leave it plugged, if you can't ground yourself and touch the power supply, right after you open. That will take and excess stored electricity, out of your body.
Have a look for anything obvious, then all the plugs a push to see if they click, or go in further.

..if you're confident.