Frequent power-downs

[Baris10]

I have only once experienced hardware issues before, which was solved by simply replacing my HDD. However now, my computer frequently powers down (after 20-60 mins of usage). This has only ever happened in the past 2 days. The first time, the fan was highly active (though the computer had not been on for long that day), so I suspected that it had overheated. The fan is still working, but no longer does it give me the impression that it is working overly-hard, so I'm not sure that it is a heating issue. Perhaps it is the PSU? I'm not too good with hardware, so I really have no idea what to do. Any help will be much appreciated.

 

[RitualJman]

Is this a laptop or desktop? If this is a desktop have your recently opened your case and cleaned it out. If not it maybe pretty plugged up with dust and dirt that you can go to any local computer or electronics store and buy a can of compressed air. Some people will also use their vacuum and hold it out side the case to help suck up the dust. Hope this helps, it does sound like it could be a heat related problem, although it could be something else but i always start with something common.

RitualJman

 

[Baris10]

Thank you! I haven't cleaned it out since I replaced the HDD (over a year ago now), I hope this works.

 

[writhziden]

Do not use a vacuum on the interior of the system. Even on the case, it may not be a great idea. The static electricity build-up due to the vacuum may cause damage to your PC. Avoid Static Damage to Your PC | PCWorld may be good further reading.

 

[Baris10]

I wasn't intending to use a vaccum, it would be awkward to hold above and my family are sleeping. Thanks though!

 

[RitualJman]

I don't use the vacuum deal either, but every one to there own fancy i guess :focus:

 

[Duzzy]

Best to use compressed air outside but if doing it indoors then having a vacum can help stop your room from filling with dust.

 

[Baris10]

Well I finally got the compressed air, cleaned out my computer... There was an incredible amount of dust. It's been running smoothly now for 4 hours, seems to be fine. Thanks.

 

[writhziden]

Great news!