Greetings to all----------A friend was ready to toss her HP 520 with XP Pro out in the trash the unit is about 2 yrs old----So I have this computer to try to find out whats wrong-----HP told them it was Kasaa causing the problems, the friend tried some HP corrections and wound up with a computer that will not boot and freezes even in safe mode.

This is what Ive done so far.

1] Clean install of Win XP Pro reformatted the HDD--this took about 12 hours
2] Going into the setup files [ bios] was like working in wet cement everything was in slow motion as was the install, everything seemed OK there--a mouse click takes about 2 seconds to respond--XP finished the install and is rebooting this is taking over 10 minutes so far and is not finished.

I havent opened the case yet to blow it out and reset the memory, cables etc:

Any ideas

Do a check of the memory itself.

I cleaned out the insides with air it was a real mess --at first nothing worked --slow or otherwise the poweron button did nothing, there was a lot residue from the air that I used, when that dried up I tried it again and this HP runs like a dream, go figure right.

I did do somthing before I booted up and that was tap the power supply a few times ??? could that have made the difference ?? I hope not ---I fixed a lot of things in life with a few taps, including my 5 kids.

Could dust have bunnies caused a problem like this ???? 12 hours to install an OS that should take about 40 minutes to install.

Ill put this HP through the paces and see in a few days ????

Im glad I only do this stuff for friends without any $$$$$ changing hands----I was until I retired an Electrical Contractor, so I know about call backs, a real pain.

Still I would like some input and opinions--Thanks Grumper

hmm..what happend next?

he friend tried some HP corrections and wound up with a computer that will not boot and freezes even in safe mode.That sounds about right........... :D 12 hours to install an OS that should take about 40 minutes to install.Must of had sp2 slipstreamed.

With ANY older or unknown computer the first thing (after I confirm it boots ok) is open it up and clean everything. NOT with compressed air, but with a vaccumn line and a new soft bristle round paint brush grounding myself or at least dischanging myself on something metal to reduce static buildup. If the system is plugged inro a known GOOD grounded outlet that should be fine.
If there was alot of dust, I dismantle everything including the HDF and remove the MB. This way it's easier to clean and you then reinsert ALL connectors in case ther is/was a contact problem.

Have a look here;
http://www.halfdone.com/Personal/Job/Pictures/ScrewUps/Dust_and_Smoking/

Wow. talk about patience. Checked the BIOS for the processor settings? There are some BIOS that has the options of compatibility and performance mode. Tinker with it and performance would be noticable.