programs fail to start

[radcliffe287]

Occasionally, after the PC has been running for some hours (either in use or with screen-saver), nothing happens when I try to start a program, by clicking on shortcuts in the taskbar, on the desktop, or in folders. Programs already open but minimised re-open and behave correctly. My only recourse is to reboot - logging off and on again doesn't help.

 

[problemshredder]

it might be the memory is full. check the status of the RAM from task manager, make sure there's plaenty of room left. if it isn't the RAM, it could be the program itself is impaired. is this also happening when opening other programs?

 

[radcliffe287]

Thanks for the reply!

To respond,I've got 3GB of RAM, and when I get this 'lock-up', not one program will start! I will check the memory next time in case it's got clogged up, though.

 

[Kaktussoft]

Can't you run shortcuts only? Or also the EXE itself doesn't work?

Test:

• keep "command prompt" open all the time. Eventually minimize it.
• When the problem occurs: activate command prompt and type: notepad. Or mspaint. notepad or mspaint opens?

 

[radcliffe287]

OK - will try it! Thanks!

 

[Kaktussoft]

start->type in: notepad.exe->press enter
And try to run notepad.exe in the "command prompt"

Post results

 

[radcliffe287]

Thanks - that sounds rather like the previous post (which was yours too I see), and I will try it when next frozen out!

 

[gregrocker]

Meanwhile you can go over your install thoroughly and become more familar with Win7 working through these Troubleshooting Steps for Windows 7

 

[radcliffe287]

Thanks!