Thanks Cameronian for all your hard work - copying across all that data is not an easy task.
I've cooled off somewhat on any connection between your problems and mine, but I did have another Explorer overload freeze this morning just to keep me guessing.
FWIW my system is:
Motherboard: Asus P5G41T-MLX
CPU: Socket 775 Celeron
OS Win XP with SP and all the 'upgrades' as offered.
2 Gb memory
using on board video and sound systems
etc....
I don't see enough similarities to draw a link between the two system at this stage. However I would follow Mike-B's suggestions. I think he is on to something here, but I've run out of puff for the moment anyway.
As always, good luck,
FOR