Problem with zv5000z CPU reaching 100% usage...

Hi Guys,

Recently my HPZV5000Z run into some freezing problem. It seems that everytime I try opening up a couple of programs here and there (no intense graphic programs were used), the computer pretty much chug and the CPU eventually reach 100% on that particular program...whether it be my poker game, Internet Explorer, or AIM. This usually don't happen but the last 2 weeks or so. I pretty much try all the steps HP recommend: from installing and updating the latest and best antispyware program, antivirus program, disable useless startup programs, optimizing the memory and defragmenting the hard drive. I try all these methods and the problem still persist. I wonder if you guys have another other recommendation to fix the problem for good (other than system restore). Thanks in advance for all the help.

 

Only one more suggestion for you. Try something like Registry Mechanic. There is a free version to start with. It might find some programs that need to be cleaned up in your reg, which could cause this kind of problem. I'm not too hopeful though, I'm afraid that a re-install of Windows is in your future. That should resolve the issue.

 

I wonder if that's happening because your cpu is overheating. Try running mobilemeter and let us know the cpu temp when your laptop freezes.

 

If there's nothing important in your system, I'd go to the extent of reloading the OS from scratch. The HP units usually have just an OS CD and a software/drivers DVD. This allows you to install a clean OS and then install just the wanted/needed drivers/software. I have seen issues with the Acer units where a specific Acer app that gets loaded at bootup causes the CPU usage to hit 99% at bootup.

-Vb-

 

Hi guys,

Thanks again for the feedback. I also try Tuneup Utilities but the freezing problems are getting worst by the day. Now instead of the CPU running up to 100% once or twice a week, it's becoming more like once or twice a day. I chat with HP and they also suggested me to try system recovery as well. I was wondering if it's ok for me to install a new OS, I was thinking of installing Window XP Pro instead of the Home Edition that originally came with the computer. If I choose this choice, how would I go at it? Would I install the window xp pro cd first, then follow it with the HP driver recovery disc? (I was also wondering if the application recovery is really necessary since I do not plan to keep any of the application that originally came with the laptop). Thanks in advance you guys for the help. I am also installing Mobile Meter right now to check up on the temperature.

 

Ok I just install Mobile Meter, and the temperature is not something I can take ease to. The temperature is listed at 50-52 running on A/C. This is just for downloading minor stuff. My hard drive temperature is listed at 41. I also have my notebook fan running at the moment as well. I was wondering if you guys can tell me what the normal temperature is expected to be for minor workload and idling, since this number seem quite high. I currently have AMD XPM 2800 Model, 1GB memory. Thanks again for the feedback guys.

 

What speed is MobileMeter showing at that temp.?

Is your notebook on a flat surface (table, desk, not your lap or bed)?

 

Frequency is keep going back and forth from 800mhz to 1.6ghz. It's currently on a flat surface. Infact, it is on my notebook cooler fan as I am typing.

 

Hello there, I am new to the forums.

I also own a zv5000z. I am a computer technician, and i fix problems all the time. So, let me help you.

Try booting into Safe Mode. This is where windows boots up, but uses only the system critical processes - i.e., it is very primitive. There is no internet access. To do this, restart the computer and press F8 when the HP logo appears, then select "Safe Mode". Try opening your programs in here and see if you encounter the same problem. If not, then the conflict probably lies somewhere else, like in a program. Next, run a spyware scan (I recommend Lavasoft Ad Aware SE Personal), and see what it finds, as well as a virus scan ( I recommend Symantec Norton Anti-Virus 2005). Sometimes, spyware will hide itself in normal windows, but in Safe Mode, it can't , so it will be found by the antispyware program and eliminated.

If this fails, and still does not fix your problem, then there may be a problem with you memory. Run a memory test (there are various programs around the internet, check www.majorgeeks.com for some), and see if there is a problem with you memory. Normally, memory does not go bad, but there are exceptions.

Next, re-install the programs (AIM, etc), as there may be a missing file that is necessary to run the program, and if it can't be found, the program will freeze, so this may solve the problem.

Finally, if all else fails, try this. THIS IS NOT A FULL REINSTALL
Put in your windows CD, and restart the computer. Boot from CD, and instead of reinstalling windows, select the option to repair it. This will replace missing files, repair corrupt ones, and restore system settings.

I hope this helped you!

 

Thank you to ChazMan as well as everyone for the great feedbacks and help. I pretty much try all the steps with running ad aware pro in safemode and norton antivirus in safe mode also but it didn't detect anything. I run the latest memtest86+ on it 2 times and it say no errors on it. It look like I have no other choice but to do a system restore because I probably planning to install XP Pro on my laptop instead of the home xp that come with it. Thanks again guy for the help.