Hi
Not that it appears to be related directly to the apparent overheating issue, but this first came to notice in September
LAST year., when you were being helped in the Malware forum
1) My DVD/CD player tries to start up but then stops. Device manager shows an error to the Primary IDE Channel. the error is "Windows cannot start this hardware device because its configuration information (in the registry) is incomplete or damaged. (Code 19)"
It also became apparent that you had only 512 of ram installed.
Whilst XP will run with 512 of ram, it will not run the system, and all you had installed, when on that Malware thread, especially when multi-tasking.
The result can only ever be that the virtual memory is constantly using your hard drive as ram.
I think, in relation to the reported 75C temp at idle, you will find that this was quite a common problem on that dell inspiron and many people cured it with the use of a compressed air can
However the real solution I think, depending on your capabilities, is on the following link.
http://support.dell....e_documentationThe service manual, basically removal of the hinge cover, the keyboard and the EMI (Elecrical Interference) shield, then you can clean the coooling fins..
My concern is that if you are still running it, as you were on the thread last year, one day you are in danger of frying something.
CAUTION DO NOT remove the actual thermal cooling assembly.
Edited by Macboatmaster, 11 March 2011 - 03:11 PM.