System crashes/stalls - Underpowered?

Hi everyone. This is a problem I've been having recently.

On a Pentium IV 640, 3.2Ghz system with an RS400a motherboard, 1Gb RAM, Emu 1212m soundcard, 12cm case fan, 2xIDE 133 HDDs, DVD multiformat writer.

I have been having several problems with the system just 'freezing' (mouse won't move, keys don't respond etc...) which have started since I added my second HDD.

I am wondering if this is due to the 350 watt power supply being overstretched now. Does this sound likely? If so, what wattage should I upgrade to?

Many thanks in advance for reading.

 

First, I'd run a diagnostic on the new drive. Make sure it's 100% 'healthy'. All the main drive makers have diagnostic programs for free download on their web sites, and most (if not all) of these diagnostic apps are bootable; you'll create a bootable CD or floppy. If the drive passes the diagnostic, then there's a real good chance that the PSU is a bit weak, especially if it's an older unit, or if it came with the PC (EMachine power supplies are notoriously weak). If you're looking for a new PSU, a minimum of 450w with at least 22A on the +12v line (dual 12v "rails" or even triple rails are preferred). You'll probably get other folks posting with higher PSU specs and recommendations, but unless you're running dual PCIX video cards in SLI/Crossfire, I think the specs I've posted will be plenty.

 

Thanks once again dlb.

The PSU is about three years old now, and white-box OEM stock. I think the cheapest of the cheap at the time infact! It had been making internal 'ticking' noises as I recall up until recently, and the computer does get left on for days at a time.

The drive itself does pass muster. I have previously checked it for errors with manufacturer diagnostic tools and Windows tools, so I hope that's still alright and will check it again.

I will buy a new PSU though - thank you for your recommendation which I will take.

 

You might also want to make sure you don't have any processes running that are hosing your system. That could also contribute to the computer locking up. I would say replacing the psu will help a lot though.