Computer surges, unstable CPU intel

Kieran20

Kieran20

New Member
Hi. recently my computer has been running quite unstable, it has surges where it just suddenly slows down.

i have noticed in the task manager that my CPU usage, is going mad, its keeps dashing from 0 - 55%

what is wrong, have i got a virus or somthing wrong with my components?

thanks

ASUS P5KC
Intel core 2 duo E6850 3.00Ghz
XFX Geforce 8600 GTS 512MB
2GB RAM
600W PSU
 
Having a modern CPU 'slow down' is perfectly normal. It's called Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology (EIST) and allows for CPU's to run cooler and conserve energy. When your system is at idle, the CPU will cut back it's clock speed, then jump back to full throttle when the extra kick is needed (opening programs, virus scanning, editing, etc.).

However, having erratic CPU usage as you described does sound a bit odd. It's possible there is a virus or background service running that shouldn't be. What AV software do you use and when was the last time you ran it? Also, have you ever tried running Spybot or AdAware? Both are useful tools for finding things that shouldn't be there in the first place.

I'd do a virus scan first to see if anything is picked up, then run both of those programs (they're both free), then do another virus scan.
 
thanks for your reply.

I use AVG anti virus, ran a scan this morning, didnt fix the issue. i have adaware but havnt ran it for a while, running it now. if this doesnt fix it i will download and run the spybot software.

i will reply back if the error is fixed or not.

cheers

Kieran
 
no i dont overclock, im not expert enough, and dont really want to anyway as my PC is good and fast without this problem.
 
i have done the scans, and having cleared some threats, the problem still persists. any thoughts?

thanks
 
sorry to bump this thread back up but i have got the same problem again only system restore is no longer curing it.

any ideas on what it could be?

thanks

Kieran
 
Well, it's probably a virus, adware, or something hiding that's not being picked up by a scan. I'd make a backup of any personal files you have, then just go a head and do a clean Windows Installation. Over time, Windows just gets bogged down with stuff - it's simply the way it's designed. Just did a fresh install myself this past weekend to clear away any useless junk piled up on there.
 
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