Computer Problem...

[Maverick42286]

OK...my computer starts up normally and right before it hits the desktop, my monitor usually makes a sound, so I know when it reached the desktop. So it made the sound, and there is nothing but a black screen. After about 1 or 2 minutes, the computer restarts by itself and the process repeats over and over again. When I start up my computer, I see the "Windows XP Home Edition" screen and I see the loading bar also, so I doubt it's my videocard. Anyone know what is wrong or what I should do to find out what the problem is.

[Maverick42286]

I also have Service Pack 2.

[PeOfEo]

What kind of sound. Is it a motherboard beep? I have seen that happen with a ram failior before. Boot into safe mode (right as windows starts to boot hit f8) then go to my computer and check the properties. If you only see 32megs or ram then I was right, if not then we need to figure out some other cuases, like software corruption (windows might be screwed up by a virus).

[Maverick42286]

The monitor sound is normal...I'll do it anyway.

[theuedimaster]

Try reformatting the harddrive. Might fix whatever problem corrupted windows.

[Maverick42286]

I did it last night, it did fix the problem. Maybe I had a virus...thanks.