Mick, the freezing is likely due to a TSR program. Try running task manager
and closing all unnecessary programs to see if that cures it. Also try
hitting escape to clear the HP splash screen during boot up.

-----Original Message-----
No matter what application (Internet, office, graphics etc) he is using it
will lock out! I don't mean a total crash. The mouse pointer or cursor will
stall for a while then it's fine.

Firstly I want to try a format (he has a lot of 'clutter' on his HD and this
may well cure the problem?). But when the machine boots up you don't get the
normal on screen bios checks that one sees ... you see a Hewlett Packard
splash screen and you get 'no' on screen prompt to enter bios.

         The PCBUILD web site always needs good submissions.  If
          you would like to contribute to the website, send any
               hardware tech tips or hardware reviews to:
                           [log in to unmask]