Unknown Hardware Problem

[matthobson]

Hey,

I have got a very strange issue with my desktop, I believe it must be hardware related:

I had a problem running a game (Armed Assault) - it would crash to desktop on start, after some simple checks I decided I was due a re-install of windows anyway so I went ahead.

I re-installed Windows XP, but the same thing happened. There are a number of other things that appear to be going wrong, which may, or may not, be related:

1) Some (not all) ZIP files cannot be unzipped as I get a CRC error.
2) Sometimes when I install things from CD or DVD I get a strange error (probably similar issue to CRC error) - I have tried different DVDs and DVD drives and still had the same issue.
3) If I install the latest drivers for my soundcard then I loose all sound
4) Random re-boots (often during installation of software/drivers - but sometimes has been when the system is idle)
5) After about my 5th try of installing XP to see if I managed to do something different each time, I now cannot connect to Windows Update.

My hunch is that it is either the mobo, or something on it (bad RAM, CPU etc.). I do not really mind buying a new mobo and cpu (as given the specs it should not be too expensive). But I would like some degree of confidence that this is the issue first!

Does anyone have any thoughts? Please let me know if more info is needed.

My specs:

Win XP with Service Pack 2 (previously had SP3 and had the same error)
3.2Ghz P4
3GB RAM
Abit IC7-Max3 Mobo
ATI (Sapphire) HD 2600XT
Creative SB Audigy 2ZS

[smargh]

Multiple corrupt zips is nearly always bad RAM. Use Memtest86+.

If that checks out, use your manufacturer's HDD diagnostics.

If that is successful, check your power supply voltages.

Regarding WindowsUpdate, check the time & date on your PC.

[matthobson]

smargh... All I can say is you legend.

I (with bugger all RAM knowledge), downloaded Memtest86+ and ran it from floppy and it showed a shed load of errors. Randomly the Corsair XMS memory I had fom first install in 2004 works fine, but the extra 2 GB I added as value select (still corsair) is knackered!

My machine is working great now.

Thank you so much, I was inches away from going for a new rig!

Cheers

Matt