Ok. Most likely if it was hardware then the bad memory would either not be seen by windows or when put under load you would get the blue screen or a restart.
Run the memtest to make sure though.
To rule out the obvious, have you installed or uninstalled anything around the time it started?
Windows xp sp1 and 2 have a hotfix for it.

Handle every stressful situation like a dog.

If you can't eat it or play with it,

just pee on it and walk away. :-)

....................................................

I wouldnt have to manage my anger

if people would manage their stupidity......