Why is my computer stuttering?

[GeneralChicken]

My computer has a strange stutter that seems to happen somewhat randomly. It's like everything gets stuck for a second, like a skipping cd or broken record and then straightens itself out.

I'm fairly sure it's a hardware issue because movers dropped my computer. I opened it up and made sure everything was seated properly and I can't see what might be wrong. I ran a memory test and my RAM checked out as OK. Maybe the PSU is damaged? This is pretty frustrating because I don't know how to identify the source of the problem.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[FinneousPJ]

Might be the HDD too if it was dropped.

 

[GeneralChicken]

I use a SSD for my main drive. I do have an HDD, but it's just for backup files.

I'm not sure what I did, but the problem may be fixed, for now. I opened up the computer and double checked that everything was plugged in well, but I didn't notice anything wrong. However, the problem seems to be gone. I only tested for about 20 minutes though, so I think it's probably to soon to claim victory.

 

[costcosaurus]

I'm going to guess that it's your power supply if you have a case that's designed to place it on the bottom.

 

[GeneralChicken]

It is placed at the bottom. However, the computer was dropped up-side down. Is there any way to test the integrity of the power supply using software?

 

[GeneralChicken]

I'd really like to get to the bottom of this if anyone has any ideas at all.

So far, I've tried taking out the RAM sticks one at a time to see if either one was the problem. I've tried disconnecting my backup HDD and my optical drive, but the stuttering persists. Anyone know what would cause this?

Would a new PSU fix it? Do I need a new mobo? Any advice on how to troubleshoot it would be much appreciated.

 

[GeneralChicken]

I guess I'll just live with it. :/

 

[nathan17890]

I guess I'll just live with it. :/

Give me all the details.
I'll see what I can do.