Help! Computer keeps freezing.

[silverweb]

This is driving me absolutely nuts. I'm using Windows 7 Pro on a Lenovo ThinkPad and tonight my keyboard has locked up 4 times, requiring a reboot.

I've looked online for solutions, none of which helped, and talked to a tech person at work, who said it's my computer freezing up. However, my mouse continues to work and I was able to finish watching a Netflix movie that I had up.

Before I go running off to the computer shop in the morning, spending money I don't have, perhaps someone here has ideas or suggestions?

[earthshine]

1. What happens if you plug in an external kbd into the usb port?

This could help you to ascertain whether or not its a hardware or software issue.

Computers can partially crash, for example, allowing you to finish your movie, but nothing else will work.

[silverweb]

2. I'm already using a cordless keyboard.

I have a Logitech cordless keyboard and mouse that I always use. I can't work with the laptop keyboard, have to use the cordless on my lap or I get pain between my shoulder blades.

[earthshine]

3. Problem with wireless is that it gives you one more thing to debug.

There are many reasons that laptops break, crash, or freeze.

Sometimes these older models overheat because there is dust embedded deeply in the unit. It interferes with airflow to parts of the unit.

There are laptop coolers, which are platforms with slow-blowing (quiet) fans, which improve this problem.

Use only on a flat surface. Never on a soft surface, like a bed or pillow, which can block airflow vents on the bottom.

I don't have enough info to provide any more advice.

Good luck.

[silverweb]

4. Thanks for your input.

This is a refurbished computer, purchased just over a year ago (with a 1-year warrantee, of course). Time to visit my friendly neighborhood computer shop, I guess, and see what my friend there says.

I greatly appreciate you taking the time to give me your insights.

[JayhawkSD]

5. A couple of things.

Cordless keyboards work by means of a device that is plugged into your computer that sends a signal to the keyboard. Check the position of that device. Has it been moved? Is it behind something that might block the signal?

Check the device program that controls the keyboard. Mine is a Microsoft and the program is
"C:\Program Files\Microsoft IntelliType Pro\"
It should tell you the signal strength and the power level of the battery in the keyboard.

Failing all else, replace the battery in the keyboard.

Hope that helps.

[silverweb]

6. Thank you.

I just got up and will try what you suggest before I take it to the shop.