BSOD ( Random Stop Errors Including 0×00000007 )
This week I ran across a computer that based upon the error will send you running in all the wrong directions. This was due to the random stop errors generated.
A stop error or blue screen of death (BSOD) is commonly the result of unhandled hardware or software issues. If the stop code and file indicated are consistent, it will likely be the cause. The solution however is not as simple as removing the file.
In this case, the computer was booting into windows, and at the point of displaying the desktop would throw the BSOD. The problem with this instance was the file and the stop code were changing from time to time.
The computer was exhibiting symptoms of bad memory. This is commonly the case where the issues keeps changing or appears to be random. Some computer manufactures include hardware diagnostics which will run a memory test. If this is not the case, look for the Microsoft Memory Diagnostics.
Most computer have two or more sticks of RAM. To determine the bad stick, remove all but one and test it. Repeat this process until you determine which sticks are bad. It’s best to test memory with the diagnostic software.
Once you have replaced or removed the bad memory, check the computer to insure it still functions. Memory issues can lead to data corruption if not dealt with in a timely manner. If the hard drive appears to have data corruption, you solution will be to uninstall/reinstall the affected applications. But at this point, you might ask yourself are their other hidden issues due to the corruption? This leads to backing up the computer and reloading.
If bad memory has corrupted programs and/or data, you are often better off reloading then dealing with the multitude of small issues that are bound to follow: sometimes the easy way out is the quickest.
( Source: internetworkconsulting )
