Weird IT Issue

[jjandellis]

For a while I've been getting rdbss Bluescreens. Particularly unhelpful that prior to the bluescreens my browsers/Stars lose internet connection. I know the net connex is fine as my phone/PS3 will remain unaffected.

Did the following (several times):

CCleaner (including deep cleans/registry etc)
Defrag
Hijack this analysis (deleted/updated where necessary)
AVG virus checks daily
Super antispyware check
Malbytes Malware check
Secunia PSI system check for outdated programmes
Uninstalled all unused apps
Deleted all old files

I updated my audio drivers for speakers as this was a known cause of the rdbss bluescreen.

I even amended some windows configs so that it is 'old skool' but faster.

However, the system though has continued to have issues and webpages load slowly. The bluescreen changed to 'Bad-pool'.

About 20 minutes ago I had to reboot after a crash. When rebooted I noticed a strange message 'new usb device'. This was followed with the usual 'search for new hardware?' dialogue box.

I thought this was bizarre as I'd not added any new hardware. Workmen sometimes get access to my room, so I had a quick check round the back for keyloggers etc. Nothing found.

The 'bubble' pops up with something about 'new usb audio device'. Scratch my head and check again. My speakers, as I knew, are not usb linked. My webcam is the only usb device attached (apart from my spare mouse). I hazarded a guess that this might be getting called an audio device due to its mic; also realised I had not done any software updates on it (I never use it)

Almost immediately all my webpages are loading at absolute lightning speed.

Is it conceivable that the webcam was the cause of such lagging problems and bluescreens?

Could there be any other explanations (sinister or otherwise)?

Any suggested further actions?

[Machka]

I've found this to usually be caused by faulty or incorrectly seated memory.  Try removing the memory sticks and reseating them.

If it still happens try posting a picture of the BSOD screen so I can see the error codes.  What BCCode does it show?

[Machka]

I've found this to usually be caused by faulty or incorrectly seated memory.  Try removing the memory sticks and reseating them.

If it still happens try posting a picture of the BSOD screen so I can see the error codes.  What BCCode does it show?

Ooh blimey can't remember, but if it happens again I will note everything down.

As I say, now the webcam is unplugged the pc is extremely quick. Total coincidence???

Small chance a bad USB driver for the webcam is causing memory to become corrupt.  So when it's unplugged the driver doesn't get loaded.