1.Defrag your hard drive at least twice.
2.Run Scandisk on the hard drive.
3.Stop all background applications.
4.Reset the I.E defaults.
5.Clear NVRAM and reset your bios defaults.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Clearing the Startup Folder:
Right click Start.
Click on Explorer.
The "Start Menu" window will open.
Click the " + " next to Start Menu.
Click the " + " next to Programs.
Double Click Startup.
The icons contained in the Startup folder appear in the right pane.
Click Edit and then click Select All.
All the icons in the Startup folder appear highlighted.
Place the mouse pointer on one of the icons, click and hold the mouse button down, and then drag the highlighted icons to the left pane over the Desktop icon.
The Desktop icon appears highlighted and the Startup folder icons appear outlined over the Desktop icon.
Release the mouse button.
The icons from the Startup folder are transferred to the Desktop and the Startup folder appears empty.
Close the window.
The Desktop reappears.
Click the Start button, click Shut Down, and click OK.
After your computer is turned off, turn it back on again and let Windows load.
Using MSCONFIG:
Left-click on START | RUN.
Type in "msconfig" in the "Open" dialog box and left-click on "OK."
When the "System Configuration Utility" window appears, the "General" tab will be visible. Left-click on "Selective Startup."
Remove the check marks from each choice except "System.ini," by left clicking on the check marks.
Click the Startup tab.
Uncheck every entry except (SystemTray)
Left-click on "Apply" and then left-click on "OK."
A message will appear stating that "For the changes to take place, the system must be restarted." Left-click on the "OK" button, and the system will begin the restart.
If the problem stops, then try using the steps below, to isolate the program that
is causing the problem.
Repeat steps above, but instead of un-checking the entries, re-check one entry at a time until you have identified the category that is the cause of the problem.
After you have isolated the application, utility, or device driver that is causing the problem, you will be able to proceed with further troubleshooting. One of the easiest methods to attempt a resolution is to reinstall the problematic application or device driver. The entry causing the problem can be left disabled if it does not affect system operation.
Delete old dos configuration files:
Autoexec.bat
Config.sys
Win.ini
-Delete "All" the files and folders in the ( C:\Windows\Temp ) folder.
1.Right click on the Internet Explorer icon.
2.Click on Properties.
3.Under the "General" tab, Temporary Internet Files Option, click the Delete Files button, and then click OK.
Under the History option, click the Clear History button.
**This will delete all web pages you have been to previously***
4.Under the "Security" tab, if applicable, click the Default Level button.
5.Under the "Programs" tab, click the Reset Web settingsbutton.
6.Click the "Advanced" tab, click the Restore Defaults button.
7.Click the Apply or OK buttons.
8.Restart the system.
Clear out the Temporary folders:
1.Open My Computer, and the Windows folder.
2.Open the Temp folder under the Windows folder.
3.Delete everything that is listed in the Temp folder.
4.Go back to the Windows Folder.
5.Open the Temporary Internet Files folder.
6.Delete everything that is listed in the Temporary Internet Files folder.
7.Close all open Windows and reboot the system.
To reset the "System Bios" defaults take these steps.
1.Entering Bios:
Turn on (or restart) your system.
When the blue Dell logo appears, press (Delete Key) "Several Times"
If you wait too long and the operating system begins to load into memory, let the system complete the load operation. Then shut down the system and try again.
If you succeed you will get a screen that reads (Dell Dimension XPS Dxxx Setup)
2.Once in Bios:
Use the Right Arrow key to move over to Advanced.
Use the Down Arrow key to go down to Reset Configuration Data.
Use the - or + keys to change the Reset Config Data to YES.
Then press the F10 key, say YES to "Save Changes and Exit."
3.Reset the settings.
Go back into the System Bios.
One's inside the System Bios, press the F9 key.
Say YES to "Setup Default Configuration"
Press the F10 key, and say YES to "Save Changes and Exit."
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I have the same problem. Mouse, keyboard, clock slow down the longer the computer is on. All processes seem to run slower. I have a Dell Dimension II 400Hz 128MB RAM.
Also did McAfee virus scan, worm removal and use ZoneAlarm.
This problem started a couple of weeks ago, suddenly. I already did some of your suggestions, but didn't help. I am not convinced that this is problem can be solved like that, because it started one day, the day before it was running fine.
Some of these spyware/malware programs are poorly written and will "call home " using bandwidth and resources. Run the above program and see what it finds.
To All,
You may want to try resetting the bios defaults and clearing NVRAM.
If you know how, also remove/reseat your system memory and all the IDE cables.
Also remove/reseat all other connections and expansion cards.
As per your suggestion I ran defrag and scandisk.Went to startup folder (nothing was there), went to MSCONFIG, put it in selective startup,went to startup tab (nothing was checked) and checked systray and restarted the computer. On startup I got "error 0210 stuck key 00.
When it booted I got an error message. There is a problem with a system file. Windows may not be able to run correctly.You might be able to fix this problem by running system restore. If this does not fix the problem, try reinstalling windows. VxD dynamic link call: VSDATA95(01)+0001770C to 0028, Service 800A. To continue running Windows choose yes, be aware that your computer might become unstable. To quit windows, choose no. You will lose any unsaved information.
I chose yes and got the message headed with "While initalizing device USDATA95". Windows protection error, you need to restart your computer. I tried ctrl,alt,delete but that wouldn't work so I restarted it with the reset button. When it restarted it went to setup so I followed your instructions for that. When it restarted it started in safe mode and ran scandisk. It took me to help and support. It gave me the option to run system restore, so I did. I got the same error message on bootup. Entered yes again and got the message While initalizing device USDATA95 Invalid VxD dynamic line call to device number 28, service 7C, your windows configuration is invalid. Run the windows setup program again to correct this problem.
I ran the Windows setup program and that got me back, but I still have the same problem with running slow. Does any of this make sense to you?
I followed all the suggestions mentioned by Karell in the first response to Rondor. Unfortunately it did not work.
I don't know what you mean by clearing NVRAM nor what you want me to do with the cables and cards? You want me to take the computer apart and reassemble it? Why, what do you think causes this slow down?
My computer came as a it still is today. I did not add any memory or other things.
This is what I recommend for you.
1.Update your bios to the latest version if you have not already done so.
It can be located
here. Once you have downloaded the file, put a blank formatted disk in the system.
Double click the file, and follow the prompts to create the bios upgrade disk.
Once the disk is created, leave it in the system and reboot the system.
The Bios upgrade will occur as the system boots up, and reads the disk.
3.After updating your bios, reset the bios defaults again and clear NVRAM.
Entering Bios:
Turn on (or restart) your system.
When the blue Dell logo appears, press Delete Key "Several Times"
If you wait too long and the operating system begins to load into memory, let the system complete the load operation. Then shut down the system and try again.
If you succeed you will get a screen that reads Dell Dimension R400 Setup.
Clearing NVRAM:
One's in the System Bios, use the Right Arrow key to highlight Advaced.
Then use the Down Arrow key to highlight Reset Config Data.
Use the ( + or - ) keys to change the setting from NO to YES.
Now press the F10 key, say Yes to Save Changes and Exit.
The system will now reboot.
Restoring Bios Defaults:
Turn on (or restart) your system.
When the blue Dell logo appears, press Delete Key "Several Times"
If you wait too long and the operating system begins to load into memory, let the system complete the load operation. Then shut down the system and try again.
If you succeed you will get a screen that reads Dell Dimension R400 Setup.
One's in the System Bios, press the F9 key.
Say YES to Setup Default Settings Now,
Then press the F10 key, say YES to Save Changes and Exit.
The system will reboot now.
3.Disconnect all your external devices except your mouse, keyboard, monitor, and then
test the system to see if it slows down.
4.Disconnect and reseat all cable connections, IDE drives, memory, processor, and expansion cards.
A loose hardware connection may cause the system to slow down.
You can find diagrams
here.
5.Run the Dell Diagnostics to see if you have any bad hardware.
Failing memory may cause the system slow down.
6.If the Diags passes the system hardware, I would recommend a complete
format/Reinstall if you have not already done so.
Make sure to backup all your data before performing a format/reinstall.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Run the Dell Diagnostics:
1. Connect to the internet and browse to this web link:
http://support.dell.com/us/en/register.asp?redirect=yes
2. If needed, type in your 5 to 7 digit Service Tag (look for a label on the computer), once you type in the 5 to 7 digit service tag number, click "Sign in using Service Tag"
3.Click on "Downloads "
Under the "Downloads" section of the page.
4.On the Upper Right hand side of the screen,
"Search Keywords or File Names,"
Type in the following file name: CD110110.exe
Then click the "Go" button.
5.Click on the Link that is brought up, and download the
"Floppy" version of the file.
This file contains a compressed (or zipped) set of files. Download the file to a folder on your hard drive, and then run (double-click) it to unzip the set of 1-5 files. Follow the instructions to create a set of floppy diskettes, and then use the diskettes to complete the installation.
To start the diagnostic tests boot the computer with the diagnostic disk in the appropriate drive.
The files will automatically load into the system.
The system will prompt for one several choices, depending on the extent and specificity of the tests to be run. For example, the choices will include:
(Fully test all devices, Quickly test all devices, Select Device to test, Exit to MSDOS.) Depending on the Diagnostic version,
some of these choices may not be available.
You should try running the (Fully test all devices), if any errors are encountered
when try to use this choice then use the (Quickly test all devices.)
If any errors are encountered when the Diagnostics program is running,
then it is an actual hardware failure.
Fully test all devices, will run an entire, comprehensive test on the computer system.
Quickly test all devices, will run all tests on the entire system, without running as an exhaustive test on the hard drive as the Run All Tests selection will.
Select a device to test, allows for the testing of specific components in the system; this choice is used if there is good reason to suspect a specific component may be the cause of the failure.
Within select a device to test, are several specific tests which individually test RAM, System Set (the chipset on the motherboard), Video, Keyboard, Mouse, Drives, Ports (serial and parallel), SCSI Devices, and Network Interfaces.
Exit to MS-DOS will exit the diagnostics to a command prompt.
NOTE: For most situations, you should Run Quick Tests.
***************************************************************
You must have the Dell Resource CD or Windows CD, in the CDROM or DVD drive.
If you have a CDRW-Drive you must also have a blank formatted CDRW disk in that drive.
Disconnect all devices from the back of the system other then the, mouse,
keyboard, and monitor.
If you have a USB keyboard or mouse, you must switch to a PS2 keyboard or mouse. USB devices are not recognized by diagnostics.
*************************************************************
What is the results of the Diagnostics test???
----------------------------------------------------------------------->>
----------------------------------------------------------------------->>
You can download the latest diags file here.
This file contains a compressed (or zipped) set of files. Download the file to a folder on your hard dive, and then run (double-click) it to unzip the set of 1-5 files. Follow the instructions to create a set of floppy diskettes, and then use the diskettes to complete the installation.
To start the diagnostic tests boot the computer with the diagnostic disk in the appropriate drive.
The files will automatically load into the system.
The system will prompt for one several choices, depending on the extent and specificity of the tests to be run. For example, the choices will include:
(Fully test all devices, Quickly test all devices, Select Device to test, Exit to MSDOS.) Depending on the Diagnostic version,
some of these choices may not be available.
You should try running the (Fully test all devices), if any errors are encountered
when try to use this choice then use the (Quickly test all devices.)
If any errors are encountered when the Diagnostics program is running,
then it is an actual hardware failure.
Fully test all devices, will run an entire, comprehensive test on the computer system.
Quickly test all devices, will run all tests on the entire system, without running as an exhaustive test on the hard drive as the Run All Tests selection will.
Select a device to test, allows for the testing of specific components in the system; this choice is used if there is good reason to suspect a specific component may be the cause of the failure.
Within select a device to test, are several specific tests which individually test RAM, System Set (the chipset on the motherboard), Video, Keyboard, Mouse, Drives, Ports (serial and parallel), SCSI Devices, and Network Interfaces.
Exit to MS-DOS will exit the diagnostics to a command prompt.
NOTE: For most situations, you should Run Quick Tests.
***************************************************************
You must have the Dell Resource CD or Windows CD, in the CDROM or DVD drive.
If you have a CDRW-Drive you must also have a blank formatted CDRW disk in that drive.
Disconnect all devices from the back of the system other then the, mouse,
keyboard, and monitor.
If you have a USB keyboard or mouse, you must switch to a PS2 keyboard or mouse. USB devices are not recognized by diagnostics.
This is what I recommend for you.
1.Update your bios to the latest version if you have not already done so.
It can be located
here. 2.After updating your bios, reset the bios defaults again and clear NVRAM.
3.Disconnect all your external devices except your mouse, keyboard, monitor, and then
test the system to see if it slows down.
4.Disconnect and reseat all cable connections, IDE drives, memory, processor, and expansion cards.
A loose hardware connection may cause the system to slow down.
5.Run the Dell Diagnostics to see if you have any bad hardware.
Failing memory may cause the system slow down.
6.If the Diags passes the system hardware, I would recommend a complete
format/Reinstall if you have not already done so.
Make sure to backup all your data before performing a format/reinstall.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Run the Dell Diagnostics:
1. Connect to the internet and browse to this web link:
http://support.dell.com/us/en/register.asp?redirect=yes
2. If needed, type in your 5 to 7 digit Service Tag (look for a label on the computer), once you type in the 5 to 7 digit service tag number, click "Sign in using Service Tag"
3.Click on "Downloads "
Under the "Downloads" section of the page.
4.On the Upper Right hand side of the screen,
"Search Keywords or File Names,"
Type in the following file name: CD110110.exe
Then click the "Go" button.
5.Click on the Link that is brought up, and download the
"Floppy" version of the file.
This file contains a compressed (or zipped) set of files. Download the file to a folder on your hard drive, and then run (double-click) it to unzip the set of 1-5 files. Follow the instructions to create a set of floppy diskettes, and then use the diskettes to complete the installation.
To start the diagnostic tests boot the computer with the diagnostic disk in the appropriate drive.
The files will automatically load into the system.
The system will prompt for one several choices, depending on the extent and specificity of the tests to be run. For example, the choices will include:
(Fully test all devices, Quickly test all devices, Select Device to test, Exit to MSDOS.) Depending on the Diagnostic version,
some of these choices may not be available.
You should try running the (Fully test all devices), if any errors are encountered
when try to use this choice then use the (Quickly test all devices.)
If any errors are encountered when the Diagnostics program is running,
then it is an actual hardware failure.
Fully test all devices, will run an entire, comprehensive test on the computer system.
Quickly test all devices, will run all tests on the entire system, without running as an exhaustive test on the hard drive as the Run All Tests selection will.
Select a device to test, allows for the testing of specific components in the system; this choice is used if there is good reason to suspect a specific component may be the cause of the failure.
Within select a device to test, are several specific tests which individually test RAM, System Set (the chipset on the motherboard), Video, Keyboard, Mouse, Drives, Ports (serial and parallel), SCSI Devices, and Network Interfaces.
Exit to MS-DOS will exit the diagnostics to a command prompt.
NOTE: For most situations, you should Run Quick Tests.
***************************************************************
You must have the Dell Resource CD or Windows CD, in the CDROM or DVD drive.
If you have a CDRW-Drive you must also have a blank formatted CDRW disk in that drive.
Disconnect all devices from the back of the system other then the, mouse,
keyboard, and monitor.
If you have a USB keyboard or mouse, you must switch to a PS2 keyboard or mouse. USB devices are not recognized by diagnostics.
*************************************************************
What is the results of the Diagnostics test???
----------------------------------------------------------------------->>
----------------------------------------------------------------------->>
You can download the latest diags file
here.
This file contains a compressed (or zipped) set of files. Download the file to a folder on your hard dive, and then run (double-click) it to unzip the set of 1-5 files. Follow the instructions to create a set of floppy diskettes, and then use the diskettes to complete the installation.
To start the diagnostic tests boot the computer with the diagnostic disk in the appropriate drive.
The files will automatically load into the system.
The system will prompt for one several choices, depending on the extent and specificity of the tests to be run. For example, the choices will include:
(Fully test all devices, Quickly test all devices, Select Device to test, Exit to MSDOS.) Depending on the Diagnostic version,
some of these choices may not be available.
You should try running the (Fully test all devices), if any errors are encountered
when try to use this choice then use the (Quickly test all devices.)
If any errors are encountered when the Diagnostics program is running,
then it is an actual hardware failure.
Fully test all devices, will run an entire, comprehensive test on the computer system.
Quickly test all devices, will run all tests on the entire system, without running as an exhaustive test on the hard drive as the Run All Tests selection will.
Select a device to test, allows for the testing of specific components in the system; this choice is used if there is good reason to suspect a specific component may be the cause of the failure.
Within select a device to test, are several specific tests which individually test RAM, System Set (the chipset on the motherboard), Video, Keyboard, Mouse, Drives, Ports (serial and parallel), SCSI Devices, and Network Interfaces.
Exit to MS-DOS will exit the diagnostics to a command prompt.
NOTE: For most situations, you should Run Quick Tests.
***************************************************************
You must have the Dell Resource CD or Windows CD, in the CDROM or DVD drive.
If you have a CDRW-Drive you must also have a blank formatted CDRW disk in that drive.
Disconnect all devices from the back of the system other then the, mouse,
keyboard, and monitor.
If you have a USB keyboard or mouse, you must switch to a PS2 keyboard or mouse. USB devices are not recognized by diagnostics.
- I updated my bios from A09 to A13. I cleared NVRAM and restored Bios defaults. System still slowed down.
- I ran Dell Diagnostics. Extended testing resulted in all passes until it started testing IDE Disk 3 that failed: Sense information - Medium not present. Device cannot be accessed, possibly medium not present ==> system hung, error count 6. System still slowed down.
- I disconnected scanner. System still slowed down.
- I disconnected the Canon MultiPass C3000 printer (/fax/copier) at the printer's end (easier to reach) and SYSTEM DOES NOT SLOW DOWN ANYMORE!!
====> So, it's the printer / printer port. How do I solve this problem? I still want to be able to use the printer, of course without my computer slowing down.
Are the instructions you posted for clearing the NVRAM the same for my Dimension 8200 w/ Windows XP HOme SP1?
I've already updated the bios in an attempt to get rid of all the different random blue screens. Can you also tell me how to disable Bios Memory Caching? I was advised that it might help.
Hopefully this reply will be emailed to me also as I'll never find this post again.
Thanks
Tim
Clearing NVRAM: One's in the System Bios, use the Right Arrow key to highlight Advaced. Then use the Down Arrow key to highlight Reset Config Data. Use the ( + or - ) keys to change the setting from NO to YES. Now press the F10 key, say Yes to Save Changes and Exit. The system will now reboot.
Restoring Bios Defaults: Turn on (or restart) your system. When the blue Dell logo appears, press Delete Key "Several Times" If you wait too long and the operating system begins to load into memory, let the system complete the load operation. Then shut down the system and try again. If you succeed you will get a screen that reads Dell Dimension R400 Setup. One's in the System Bios, press the F9 key. Say YES to Setup Default Settings Now, Then press the F10 key, say YES to Save Changes and Exit. The system will reboot now.
Karell
2 Intern
•
2.5K Posts
0
October 15th, 2002 16:00
Thank you for using the Dell Community Forum.
1.Defrag your hard drive at least twice.
2.Run Scandisk on the hard drive.
3.Stop all background applications.
4.Reset the I.E defaults.
5.Clear NVRAM and reset your bios defaults.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Clearing the Startup Folder:
Right click Start.
Click on Explorer.
The "Start Menu" window will open.
Click the " + " next to Start Menu.
Click the " + " next to Programs.
Double Click Startup.
The icons contained in the Startup folder appear in the right pane.
Click Edit and then click Select All.
All the icons in the Startup folder appear highlighted.
Place the mouse pointer on one of the icons, click and hold the mouse button down, and then drag the highlighted icons to the left pane over the Desktop icon.
The Desktop icon appears highlighted and the Startup folder icons appear outlined over the Desktop icon.
Release the mouse button.
The icons from the Startup folder are transferred to the Desktop and the Startup folder appears empty.
Close the window.
The Desktop reappears.
Click the Start button, click Shut Down, and click OK.
After your computer is turned off, turn it back on again and let Windows load.
Using MSCONFIG:
Left-click on START | RUN.
Type in "msconfig" in the "Open" dialog box and left-click on "OK."
When the "System Configuration Utility" window appears, the "General" tab will be visible. Left-click on "Selective Startup."
Remove the check marks from each choice except "System.ini," by left clicking on the check marks.
Click the Startup tab.
Uncheck every entry except (SystemTray)
Left-click on "Apply" and then left-click on "OK."
A message will appear stating that "For the changes to take place, the system must be restarted." Left-click on the "OK" button, and the system will begin the restart.
If the problem stops, then try using the steps below, to isolate the program that
is causing the problem.
Repeat steps above, but instead of un-checking the entries, re-check one entry at a time until you have identified the category that is the cause of the problem.
After you have isolated the application, utility, or device driver that is causing the problem, you will be able to proceed with further troubleshooting. One of the easiest methods to attempt a resolution is to reinstall the problematic application or device driver. The entry causing the problem can be left disabled if it does not affect system operation.
Delete old dos configuration files:
Autoexec.bat
Config.sys
Win.ini
-Delete "All" the files and folders in the ( C:\Windows\Temp ) folder.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
How to reset I.E defaults:
1.Right click on the Internet Explorer icon.
2.Click on Properties.
3.Under the "General" tab, Temporary Internet Files Option, click the Delete Files button, and then click OK.
Under the History option, click the Clear History button.
**This will delete all web pages you have been to previously***
4.Under the "Security" tab, if applicable, click the Default Level button.
5.Under the "Programs" tab, click the Reset Web settingsbutton.
6.Click the "Advanced" tab, click the Restore Defaults button.
7.Click the Apply or OK buttons.
8.Restart the system.
Clear out the Temporary folders:
1.Open My Computer, and the Windows folder.
2.Open the Temp folder under the Windows folder.
3.Delete everything that is listed in the Temp folder.
4.Go back to the Windows Folder.
5.Open the Temporary Internet Files folder.
6.Delete everything that is listed in the Temporary Internet Files folder.
7.Close all open Windows and reboot the system.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To reset the "System Bios" defaults take these steps.
1.Entering Bios:
Turn on (or restart) your system.
When the blue Dell logo appears, press (Delete Key) "Several Times"
If you wait too long and the operating system begins to load into memory, let the system complete the load operation. Then shut down the system and try again.
If you succeed you will get a screen that reads (Dell Dimension XPS Dxxx Setup)
2.Once in Bios:
Use the Right Arrow key to move over to Advanced.
Use the Down Arrow key to go down to Reset Configuration Data.
Use the - or + keys to change the Reset Config Data to YES.
Then press the F10 key, say YES to "Save Changes and Exit."
3.Reset the settings.
Go back into the System Bios.
One's inside the System Bios, press the F9 key.
Say YES to "Setup Default Configuration"
Press the F10 key, and say YES to "Save Changes and Exit."
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ottilie
3 Posts
0
October 17th, 2002 15:00
I have the same problem. Mouse, keyboard, clock slow down the longer the computer is on. All processes seem to run slower. I have a Dell Dimension II 400Hz 128MB RAM.
Also did McAfee virus scan, worm removal and use ZoneAlarm.
This problem started a couple of weeks ago, suddenly. I already did some of your suggestions, but didn't help. I am not convinced that this is problem can be solved like that, because it started one day, the day before it was running fine.
creeper
653 Posts
0
October 18th, 2002 15:00
Did either of you download any freeware just before these problems appeared?
Try hunting for spyware http://www.lavasoftusa.com/downloads.html.
Some of these spyware/malware programs are poorly written and will "call home " using bandwidth and resources. Run the above program and see what it finds.
Karell
2 Intern
•
2.5K Posts
0
October 18th, 2002 15:00
You may want to try resetting the bios defaults and clearing NVRAM.
If you know how, also remove/reseat your system memory and all the IDE cables.
Also remove/reseat all other connections and expansion cards.
rondor
2 Posts
0
October 19th, 2002 03:00
As per your suggestion I ran defrag and scandisk.Went to startup folder (nothing was there), went to MSCONFIG, put it in selective startup,went to startup tab (nothing was checked) and checked systray and restarted the computer. On startup I got "error 0210 stuck key 00.
When it booted I got an error message. There is a problem with a system file. Windows may not be able to run correctly.You might be able to fix this problem by running system restore. If this does not fix the problem, try reinstalling windows. VxD dynamic link call: VSDATA95(01)+0001770C to 0028, Service 800A. To continue running Windows choose yes, be aware that your computer might become unstable. To quit windows, choose no. You will lose any unsaved information.
I chose yes and got the message headed with "While initalizing device USDATA95". Windows protection error, you need to restart your computer. I tried ctrl,alt,delete but that wouldn't work so I restarted it with the reset button. When it restarted it went to setup so I followed your instructions for that. When it restarted it started in safe mode and ran scandisk. It took me to help and support. It gave me the option to run system restore, so I did. I got the same error message on bootup. Entered yes again and got the message While initalizing device USDATA95 Invalid VxD dynamic line call to device number 28, service 7C, your windows configuration is invalid. Run the windows setup program again to correct this problem.
I ran the Windows setup program and that got me back, but I still have the same problem with running slow. Does any of this make sense to you?
Ottilie
3 Posts
0
October 20th, 2002 21:00
I followed all the suggestions mentioned by Karell in the first response to Rondor. Unfortunately it did not work.
I don't know what you mean by clearing NVRAM nor what you want me to do with the cables and cards? You want me to take the computer apart and reassemble it? Why, what do you think causes this slow down?
My computer came as a it still is today. I did not add any memory or other things.
Karell
2 Intern
•
2.5K Posts
0
October 21st, 2002 17:00
This is what I recommend for you.
1.Update your bios to the latest version if you have not already done so.
It can be located here.
Once you have downloaded the file, put a blank formatted disk in the system.
Double click the file, and follow the prompts to create the bios upgrade disk.
Once the disk is created, leave it in the system and reboot the system.
The Bios upgrade will occur as the system boots up, and reads the disk.
3.After updating your bios, reset the bios defaults again and clear NVRAM.
Entering Bios:
Turn on (or restart) your system.
When the blue Dell logo appears, press Delete Key "Several Times"
If you wait too long and the operating system begins to load into memory, let the system complete the load operation. Then shut down the system and try again.
If you succeed you will get a screen that reads Dell Dimension R400 Setup.
Clearing NVRAM:
One's in the System Bios, use the Right Arrow key to highlight Advaced.
Then use the Down Arrow key to highlight Reset Config Data.
Use the ( + or - ) keys to change the setting from NO to YES.
Now press the F10 key, say Yes to Save Changes and Exit.
The system will now reboot.
Restoring Bios Defaults:
Turn on (or restart) your system.
When the blue Dell logo appears, press Delete Key "Several Times"
If you wait too long and the operating system begins to load into memory, let the system complete the load operation. Then shut down the system and try again.
If you succeed you will get a screen that reads Dell Dimension R400 Setup.
One's in the System Bios, press the F9 key.
Say YES to Setup Default Settings Now,
Then press the F10 key, say YES to Save Changes and Exit.
The system will reboot now.
3.Disconnect all your external devices except your mouse, keyboard, monitor, and then
test the system to see if it slows down.
4.Disconnect and reseat all cable connections, IDE drives, memory, processor, and expansion cards.
A loose hardware connection may cause the system to slow down.
You can find diagrams here.
5.Run the Dell Diagnostics to see if you have any bad hardware.
Failing memory may cause the system slow down.
6.If the Diags passes the system hardware, I would recommend a complete
format/Reinstall if you have not already done so.
Make sure to backup all your data before performing a format/reinstall.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Run the Dell Diagnostics:
1. Connect to the internet and browse to this web link:
http://support.dell.com/us/en/register.asp?redirect=yes
2. If needed, type in your 5 to 7 digit Service Tag (look for a label on the computer), once you type in the 5 to 7 digit service tag number, click "Sign in using Service Tag"
3.Click on "Downloads "
Under the "Downloads" section of the page.
4.On the Upper Right hand side of the screen,
"Search Keywords or File Names,"
Type in the following file name: CD110110.exe
Then click the "Go" button.
5.Click on the Link that is brought up, and download the
"Floppy" version of the file.
This file contains a compressed (or zipped) set of files. Download the file to a folder on your hard drive, and then run (double-click) it to unzip the set of 1-5 files. Follow the instructions to create a set of floppy diskettes, and then use the diskettes to complete the installation.
To start the diagnostic tests boot the computer with the diagnostic disk in the appropriate drive.
The files will automatically load into the system.
The system will prompt for one several choices, depending on the extent and specificity of the tests to be run. For example, the choices will include:
(Fully test all devices, Quickly test all devices, Select Device to test, Exit to MSDOS.) Depending on the Diagnostic version,
some of these choices may not be available.
You should try running the (Fully test all devices), if any errors are encountered
when try to use this choice then use the (Quickly test all devices.)
If any errors are encountered when the Diagnostics program is running,
then it is an actual hardware failure.
Fully test all devices, will run an entire, comprehensive test on the computer system.
Quickly test all devices, will run all tests on the entire system, without running as an exhaustive test on the hard drive as the Run All Tests selection will.
Select a device to test, allows for the testing of specific components in the system; this choice is used if there is good reason to suspect a specific component may be the cause of the failure.
Within select a device to test, are several specific tests which individually test RAM, System Set (the chipset on the motherboard), Video, Keyboard, Mouse, Drives, Ports (serial and parallel), SCSI Devices, and Network Interfaces.
Exit to MS-DOS will exit the diagnostics to a command prompt.
NOTE: For most situations, you should Run Quick Tests.
***************************************************************
You must have the Dell Resource CD or Windows CD, in the CDROM or DVD drive.
If you have a CDRW-Drive you must also have a blank formatted CDRW disk in that drive.
Disconnect all devices from the back of the system other then the, mouse,
keyboard, and monitor.
If you have a USB keyboard or mouse, you must switch to a PS2 keyboard or mouse. USB devices are not recognized by diagnostics.
*************************************************************
What is the results of the Diagnostics test???
----------------------------------------------------------------------->>
----------------------------------------------------------------------->>
You can download the latest diags file here.
This file contains a compressed (or zipped) set of files. Download the file to a folder on your hard dive, and then run (double-click) it to unzip the set of 1-5 files. Follow the instructions to create a set of floppy diskettes, and then use the diskettes to complete the installation.
To start the diagnostic tests boot the computer with the diagnostic disk in the appropriate drive.
The files will automatically load into the system.
The system will prompt for one several choices, depending on the extent and specificity of the tests to be run. For example, the choices will include:
(Fully test all devices, Quickly test all devices, Select Device to test, Exit to MSDOS.) Depending on the Diagnostic version,
some of these choices may not be available.
You should try running the (Fully test all devices), if any errors are encountered
when try to use this choice then use the (Quickly test all devices.)
If any errors are encountered when the Diagnostics program is running,
then it is an actual hardware failure.
Fully test all devices, will run an entire, comprehensive test on the computer system.
Quickly test all devices, will run all tests on the entire system, without running as an exhaustive test on the hard drive as the Run All Tests selection will.
Select a device to test, allows for the testing of specific components in the system; this choice is used if there is good reason to suspect a specific component may be the cause of the failure.
Within select a device to test, are several specific tests which individually test RAM, System Set (the chipset on the motherboard), Video, Keyboard, Mouse, Drives, Ports (serial and parallel), SCSI Devices, and Network Interfaces.
Exit to MS-DOS will exit the diagnostics to a command prompt.
NOTE: For most situations, you should Run Quick Tests.
***************************************************************
You must have the Dell Resource CD or Windows CD, in the CDROM or DVD drive.
If you have a CDRW-Drive you must also have a blank formatted CDRW disk in that drive.
Disconnect all devices from the back of the system other then the, mouse,
keyboard, and monitor.
If you have a USB keyboard or mouse, you must switch to a PS2 keyboard or mouse. USB devices are not recognized by diagnostics.
Karell
2 Intern
•
2.5K Posts
0
October 21st, 2002 17:00
This is what I recommend for you.
1.Update your bios to the latest version if you have not already done so.
It can be located here.
2.After updating your bios, reset the bios defaults again and clear NVRAM.
3.Disconnect all your external devices except your mouse, keyboard, monitor, and then
test the system to see if it slows down.
4.Disconnect and reseat all cable connections, IDE drives, memory, processor, and expansion cards.
A loose hardware connection may cause the system to slow down.
5.Run the Dell Diagnostics to see if you have any bad hardware.
Failing memory may cause the system slow down.
6.If the Diags passes the system hardware, I would recommend a complete
format/Reinstall if you have not already done so.
Make sure to backup all your data before performing a format/reinstall.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Run the Dell Diagnostics:
1. Connect to the internet and browse to this web link:
http://support.dell.com/us/en/register.asp?redirect=yes
2. If needed, type in your 5 to 7 digit Service Tag (look for a label on the computer), once you type in the 5 to 7 digit service tag number, click "Sign in using Service Tag"
3.Click on "Downloads "
Under the "Downloads" section of the page.
4.On the Upper Right hand side of the screen,
"Search Keywords or File Names,"
Type in the following file name: CD110110.exe
Then click the "Go" button.
5.Click on the Link that is brought up, and download the
"Floppy" version of the file.
This file contains a compressed (or zipped) set of files. Download the file to a folder on your hard drive, and then run (double-click) it to unzip the set of 1-5 files. Follow the instructions to create a set of floppy diskettes, and then use the diskettes to complete the installation.
To start the diagnostic tests boot the computer with the diagnostic disk in the appropriate drive.
The files will automatically load into the system.
The system will prompt for one several choices, depending on the extent and specificity of the tests to be run. For example, the choices will include:
(Fully test all devices, Quickly test all devices, Select Device to test, Exit to MSDOS.) Depending on the Diagnostic version,
some of these choices may not be available.
You should try running the (Fully test all devices), if any errors are encountered
when try to use this choice then use the (Quickly test all devices.)
If any errors are encountered when the Diagnostics program is running,
then it is an actual hardware failure.
Fully test all devices, will run an entire, comprehensive test on the computer system.
Quickly test all devices, will run all tests on the entire system, without running as an exhaustive test on the hard drive as the Run All Tests selection will.
Select a device to test, allows for the testing of specific components in the system; this choice is used if there is good reason to suspect a specific component may be the cause of the failure.
Within select a device to test, are several specific tests which individually test RAM, System Set (the chipset on the motherboard), Video, Keyboard, Mouse, Drives, Ports (serial and parallel), SCSI Devices, and Network Interfaces.
Exit to MS-DOS will exit the diagnostics to a command prompt.
NOTE: For most situations, you should Run Quick Tests.
***************************************************************
You must have the Dell Resource CD or Windows CD, in the CDROM or DVD drive.
If you have a CDRW-Drive you must also have a blank formatted CDRW disk in that drive.
Disconnect all devices from the back of the system other then the, mouse,
keyboard, and monitor.
If you have a USB keyboard or mouse, you must switch to a PS2 keyboard or mouse. USB devices are not recognized by diagnostics.
*************************************************************
What is the results of the Diagnostics test???
----------------------------------------------------------------------->>
----------------------------------------------------------------------->>
You can download the latest diags file here.
This file contains a compressed (or zipped) set of files. Download the file to a folder on your hard dive, and then run (double-click) it to unzip the set of 1-5 files. Follow the instructions to create a set of floppy diskettes, and then use the diskettes to complete the installation.
To start the diagnostic tests boot the computer with the diagnostic disk in the appropriate drive.
The files will automatically load into the system.
The system will prompt for one several choices, depending on the extent and specificity of the tests to be run. For example, the choices will include:
(Fully test all devices, Quickly test all devices, Select Device to test, Exit to MSDOS.) Depending on the Diagnostic version,
some of these choices may not be available.
You should try running the (Fully test all devices), if any errors are encountered
when try to use this choice then use the (Quickly test all devices.)
If any errors are encountered when the Diagnostics program is running,
then it is an actual hardware failure.
Fully test all devices, will run an entire, comprehensive test on the computer system.
Quickly test all devices, will run all tests on the entire system, without running as an exhaustive test on the hard drive as the Run All Tests selection will.
Select a device to test, allows for the testing of specific components in the system; this choice is used if there is good reason to suspect a specific component may be the cause of the failure.
Within select a device to test, are several specific tests which individually test RAM, System Set (the chipset on the motherboard), Video, Keyboard, Mouse, Drives, Ports (serial and parallel), SCSI Devices, and Network Interfaces.
Exit to MS-DOS will exit the diagnostics to a command prompt.
NOTE: For most situations, you should Run Quick Tests.
***************************************************************
You must have the Dell Resource CD or Windows CD, in the CDROM or DVD drive.
If you have a CDRW-Drive you must also have a blank formatted CDRW disk in that drive.
Disconnect all devices from the back of the system other then the, mouse,
keyboard, and monitor.
If you have a USB keyboard or mouse, you must switch to a PS2 keyboard or mouse. USB devices are not recognized by diagnostics.
Ottilie
3 Posts
0
October 26th, 2002 03:00
- I updated my bios from A09 to A13. I cleared NVRAM and restored Bios defaults. System still slowed down.
- I ran Dell Diagnostics. Extended testing resulted in all passes until it started testing IDE Disk 3 that failed: Sense information - Medium not present. Device cannot be accessed, possibly medium not present ==> system hung, error count 6. System still slowed down.
- I disconnected scanner. System still slowed down.
- I disconnected the Canon MultiPass C3000 printer (/fax/copier) at the printer's end (easier to reach) and SYSTEM DOES NOT SLOW DOWN ANYMORE!!
====> So, it's the printer / printer port. How do I solve this problem? I still want to be able to use the printer, of course without my computer slowing down.
Thanx!
timbuk2
1 Message
0
October 28th, 2002 04:00
Are the instructions you posted for clearing the NVRAM the same for my Dimension 8200 w/ Windows XP HOme SP1?
I've already updated the bios in an attempt to get rid of all the different random blue screens. Can you also tell me how to disable Bios Memory Caching? I was advised that it might help.
Hopefully this reply will be emailed to me also as I'll never find this post again.
Thanks
Tim
Clearing NVRAM:
One's in the System Bios, use the Right Arrow key to highlight Advaced.
Then use the Down Arrow key to highlight Reset Config Data.
Use the ( + or - ) keys to change the setting from NO to YES.
Now press the F10 key, say Yes to Save Changes and Exit.
The system will now reboot.
Restoring Bios Defaults:
Turn on (or restart) your system.
When the blue Dell logo appears, press Delete Key "Several Times"
If you wait too long and the operating system begins to load into memory, let the system complete the load operation. Then shut down the system and try again.
If you succeed you will get a screen that reads Dell Dimension R400 Setup.
One's in the System Bios, press the F9 key.
Say YES to Setup Default Settings Now,
Then press the F10 key, say YES to Save Changes and Exit.
The system will reboot now.