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MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION
STOP: 0x0000009C
Description
The processor detected a fault. This fault is called the Machine Check Exception. Some of the causes include:
Processor specific detected hardware problems
Processor internal memory cache errors
System bus errors
Memory errors that may include parity or Error Correction Code (ECC) problems
This is a fatal Windows error, typically called a Stop message, Bug Check, or more commonly the Blue Screen of Death (BSoD). The system is in a forced reboot state. Any unsaved work is likely lost.
Sample Screen
A problem has been detected and Windows has been shut down to prevent damage to your computer.
MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION
If this is the first time you've seen this Stop error screen, restart your computer. If this screen appears again, follow these steps:
Check to make sure any new hardware or software is properly installed. If this is a new installation, ask your hardware or software manufacturer for any Windows updates you might need.
If problems continue, disable or remove any newly installed hardware or software. Disable BIOS memory options such as caching or shadowing. If you need to use Safe Mode to remove or disable components, restart your computer, press F8 to select Advanced Startup Options, and then select Safe Mode.
Technical Information:
*** STOP: 0x0000009C
Beginning dump of physical memory
Physical memory dump complete.
Contact your system administrator or technical support group for further
assistance.
Text may appear differently depending on where the error occurs.
Additional technical information (hex values) specific to a machine are not shown.
If the problems only occur after the system has warmed up and never occurs after you turn on a cold system (i.e. has been off for at least 30 minutes), the parts may be getting too hot and are failing.
Often this kind of problem is related to poor air-flow through the PC. Desktops usually have between 3 and 5 fans. If any fan fails, runs slowly, or if the vents are blocked, internal high temperatures can cause all sorts of odd behavior and BSoD messages.
While the system is powered on, put you hand near the exhaust fans at the back and confirm you feel a warm airflow. If there is no airflow or it is very hot, it's a good bet you have fan problems. Also check the inlets and be sure they are clear of dust and debris. If you have pets, check if fur is blocking the inlet vents.
If you are comfortable opening your PC, turn off the computer and open it up. With the insides in good view, re-apply power and turn it back on. Check that each fan is working properly and they are not clogged with dust.
Be sure to check the CPU fan and the fan inside the power supply. Also many video adapters have their own small fan. Replace any slowly turning or defective fans. Also be sure no cables are too close to the fan blades, as they can limit airflow, or worse - stop the fan if they hit the blades.
Check if the processor heat sink/fan assembly is properly attached to the processor chip. It should not be loose and should be clamped tightly to the the processor.
If the fans are all working and airflow is good, you may have a defective CPU, memory or other hardware component.
FaultWire Staff Posted: 4-Oct-2008
Check Memory
8
You may have a defective memory. This is even more likely if it only occurs when the system is cold or hot, but not all the time. Use a memory tester to confirm if it is defective or if you have spare memory, try replacement.
Windows 7 and Vista include a Memory Test program when booting from the Windows Installation DVD. Step-by-step instructions with screen shots are available at Using System Restore on 7/Vista/2008 as part of System Recovery.
Several software products that also provide memory and video diagnostics includes Fix-It Utilities Professional and SystemSuite Professional. Other diagnostic products include Eurosoft's PC Check and Iolo's System Mechanic.
Additional Memory Solutions:
Confirm all the memory is of the same type and speed. Many motherboards only work correctly when the memory is installed with matched sets and matched speeds.
If you added or changed your memory just before this problem occurred, try reverting to the prior memory configuration to confirm it's the source of the problem.
Check that the memory is fully seated in the sockets. Memory sockets often have side latches that need to be upright to indicate the memory is correctly locked in place.
Confirm the memory resides in the correct slots on the motherboard. You'll need to refer to the motherboard manual to confirm this. There is little consistency, even within a single vendor. Some systems require that memory is installed as matched pairs, but not always adjacent to each other!
It's also possible the memory problem is on the video card, as they often contain additional memory. The video card should be tested and/or try a different video card to see if the problem goes away.
FaultWire Staff Posted: 5-Oct-2008
CPU Replacement
7
Try replacing the processor or if you are overclocking the system, turn off or reduce overclocking.
FaultWire Staff Posted: 2-Sep-2009
Fix Power Supply Issues
6
Check if the power supply is stable. Problems can arise from voltage fluctuations, poor filtering, or incorrect voltage levels. Conform the power cord is securely plugged in at both ends and the AC power source is good.
While BSoD fatal stop errors are identified by Microsoft Windows, they are often caused by
non-Microsoft applications, drivers and hardware issues.
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Notes
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