System stalls on boot-up

I am having an intermittent problem with my computer stalling during power-on. I am running Win98SE on a Pentium166 system. Lately it takes several attempts to boot up (by either power off/on or hitting the reset button) before finally it starts up properly. The system is 7 (yes seven!) years old, but other than this recent problem, runs beautifully.

In browsing other posts, I've seen the suggestion to change the internal battery (which has never been changed to my knowledge). Do you agree with changing the battery? And any other ideas on areas to check?

And BTW, I also have a Pentium550 running Win2000Pro. It is about 18 months old. Occasionally, it also stalls during start-up (not as often as above computer). Worthwhile changing that battery too? Or am I chasing down the wrong problem.

Thanks for any thoughts you want to pass along!!

 

The obvious sign of a failing/failed CMOS battery is the clock losing time.

In any case, 7 years is a long time for a battery and changing it would be good practice unless you have a Compaq which in some models has the battery soldered on to the motherboard.

 

Hey Scotts...How about the usual suspects? You know...Scan disk, Defrag, Temp folders etc.....

 

Thanks for the ideas so far. The clock is not losing any time at all - that's never been a problem. In terms of defrag, temp files etc., I'm pretty good at keeping the system in good shape.

The problem I believe is more hardware related. It sometimes stalls immediately after the memory test on power-up, for example. Long before Windows starts to kick in. Or are you thinking of something else?

Thanks again.....

 

Have you opened up the case, blew out the dust bunnies and checked your fans?

Daizy