Why is this happening - its SO annoying!

[Jonty]

I connect to the Internet using a modem and ordinary landline. I use Internet Explorer 5.5 (just upgraded from 5).

My problem is very annoying - and it ONLY happens when I'm connected. At random times the monitor will go into standby and then the computer will restart automatically. I then have to go through all the bother of running disc doctor to check the discs etc and also it means that whatever web pages I'd just been to have been lost.

This has been happening since first going online over a year ago and occurs about 4 times out of every 10 connections.

The phone line seems OK, no crackles or anything when I use it with the phone, its also connected to a surge protector.

What could be causing the computer to be restarting? There are no warning signs - one second I am happily surfing, the next second the screen is black going into standby then restarting!!

Any ideas? Thanks!

[Warthog]

It ONLY happens when you are online?

What are your power saving settings at?

Warthog

[Jonty]

Thats right, only when online.

I have the power settings as
System Standby as never, Monitor as 10 mins and Hard discs as never.

[ilcavero]

thats really odd, never heard of something like that.
try to change your modem, maybe its damage

[BFlurie]

Disable your monitor power-down. Uncheck the "Let Windows manage the power....." under Control Panel/ Power. Disable ALL power management in the BIOS.

[Wiruz]

...And scan for trojans and viruses.

[Jonty]

It is strange isn't it!

Actually, its just as though the reset button has been pressed so perhaps something is wrong there? But then it would also happen when not online surely?

I tend to go with ilcavero on this and that it could be the modem. My original modem was faulty and I got a 'new' one under warranty but whether it was new is anyones guess! I can't really see its anything to do with power settings either as it only happens when I'm online. I've also got up to date anti-virus software so thats out as well. Power Management in BIOS has always been disabled but I can't find any option in the Control Panel Power section about Windows managing the power settings?

I do remember reading in another thread somewhere in Sysopt about if there is an over or under voltage detected in the circuits in the computer then the computer will reset itself. Perhaps its that? But again why do it when I'm online and not other times?! It must be the modem?!

Thanks for all your help anyway, any other suggestions are welcome.

[Jonty]

Just an update on this problem, and I've been poking about finding out the details of my modem. It turns out that it is a so-called soft-soft modem and the particular chipset (pt3515) has a tendency to shut the system for no apparent reason!

I've now installed more recent drivers (May 1999!!) and so far - fingers crossed - I haven't had a system restart with it.

While finding out about this problem I've also learnt a few more things about modems and phone lines. Apparently you should have the shortest lead possible from the modem to the wall outlet, also unplug any other phones on the same line.