[FunTime]

Hi,

My computer has been making a strange clicking noise shortly before everything freezes I've no idea where it is coming from or what is causing it. I originally thought it might be the power supply not being able to supply enough power, but I have had the same setup for a few years now and it has only just started happening.
It has only happened maybe three times in the last 2 months, but this morning it did it three times in three hours.
I took the side off the case and nothing seems to be out of place, my hard drives did seem to be a little on the hot side, but not knowing how hot they normally get or even if this is a problem doesn't help.

Can anyone help shed some light on this?

[Dalo Harkin]

Clicking is normally the HDD - if it is your main HDD then the drive can run at a toasty 50 degrees (this is normal)
The clicking occurs when the arm is sticking - you should notice pauses in the OS and programs, mouse movements etc.
One of mine has been clicking for 2 years and still not died - better to make regular backups incase one day it decides to give up the ghost.

[Kelly]

I echo what Dalo said. Please backup your hard drive as soon as possible. If it's the hard drive as we suspect, they do not get better and they fail quickly once the signs are noted. Also be aware that without us being there personally, we can't be sure.

Either way, it's always a good idea to have your data backed up. There are two kinds of people: those who have lost there data, and those that will.

Additionally, if the hard drive fails, you will need reinstall disks to get the computer running again with a new hard drive. Make sure you have those reinstall disks available.