| Certain types of hardware and software malfunctions | | | | failure is the Windows event log. In the Windows event |
| on Microsoft Windows based computers often result | | | | log look for disk related errors noting "bad block" or "i/o |
| in what is commonly known as the blue screen of | | | | read error" instances. Backup your data as soon as |
| death or BSOD. The blue screen with its white text | | | | possible if computer exhibits any of these indicators. |
| does serve a purpose in that it provides detailed | | | | Another blue screen inducing component is faulty |
| information regarding the nature and possible source of | | | | memory. Process of elimination is the easiest |
| the system halting error. Listed below are some | | | | troubleshooting method if your computer has multiple |
| suggestions for troubleshooting BSOD errors. | | | | memory modules installed. Start up the computer with |
| A common source of blue screen errors is newly | | | | only one memory module installed at a time and watch |
| installed hardware and driver software that conflicts | | | | to see which one produces blue screens. Most new |
| with the existing system configuration. Remove the | | | | computer manufacturers include built-in memory |
| new hardware to determine if it is the source. If the | | | | diagnostics utilities that help to simplify the |
| system boots normally after removing the new | | | | troubleshooting process. The memory test can usually |
| hardware then you may need to check with the | | | | be initiated from the computers boot options screen |
| manufacturer regarding system compatibility and any | | | | during the startup process. |
| possible driver or other related software updates. | | | | Overheating processors on the motherboard or video |
| Defective or failing hardware could also be at fault. | | | | cards can lead to system instability and random blue |
| Failing hard drives, overheating processors or even | | | | screen errors. Check your hardware for temperature |
| faulty memory can all contribute to blue screens and | | | | monitoring features. Overheating can be alleviated by |
| system freezing. A good indication that a hard drive | | | | keeping the inside of your computer dust free. Canned |
| may be failing can be detected through the computers | | | | air is usually the best option for blowing out dust from |
| Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology or | | | | within the computer. |
| SMART function. The SMART feature will usually | | | | Enlist the help of your local computer repair shop or |
| declare "Eminent hard drive failure detected, backup | | | | manufacturers tech support if you are unable to |
| your data and replace" during the computers initial boot | | | | resolve a blue screen error condition on your own. |
| up process. The other area that can reveal eminent | | | | |