Computer Restarts or doesn't start

[Jokerswild]

I just put a new network in the house and pulled an old computer that I built out of the closet and wanted to get it running again.

Formatted the Hard drive for a fresh start and put a version of XP on it. Every now and then XP (and the computer for that matter) just restart for no apparant reason. No error messages or warning...nothing. I think it's a ram problem but just wanted to hear any similar cases

Also, if I don't have a PS/2 keyboard plugged in, the computer makes it past POST, but after that the screen goes blank. USB keyboards wont work. I've searched the BIOS for PS/2 settings and such and it's just seems wierd this comptuer is actin spooky

[jmichna]

Deleted... didn't properly read original post.

Overheating, failing power supply. Reseat all hardware.

[I2n0ld]

temp problem maybe? check fans

[HeadBand]

yeah temp was my first though too...if its been in the closet it could use a good compressed air cleaning

[Mickwish]

You can make XP tell you what the error was (gives a nice old BSOD message ) by changing the settings in Startup and Recovery tab on Advanced setting after right clicking My Computer and selecting properties. I'm not in XP right now but that where I think it is. Have a look.

Could even be driver probs if it's old hardware. Did you get any warnings from XP when you loaded it about drivers and incompatibility?

But heat is likely an issue. Dust in the CPU fan, PSU fan or just in the whole case may cause this.

Oh, and the BIOS should let you turn off all warnings for disk/keyboard probs. This should let you boot without a keyboard attached.

Cheers
Mick