MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION, Windows7

3 year old Notebook HP Pavilion dv7 is displaying an error which is:

MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION

STOP: 0x0000009C (0x0000000000000000, 0xFFFFF880009F1C70, 0x0000000000000000, 0x0000000000000000)

I did some research on google and such and i know it is CPU or Power Supply but no further info or how to resolve the problem.

• Spec:
• CPU: Intel Core i7 Q720@1.60Ghz - NO OC
• GPU: ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5650
• 8GB RAM
• WIN7 HE 64x

Loaded BIOS defaults - error still appearing.

This generally means a hardware failure - though issues with the BIOS/UEFI can cause this.

• Make sure your system is well ventilated and dusted.
• Open your system up and make sure all fans are working.
• Check the power needs of your GPU and make sure your power supply is rated to handle.

Next:

• Update BIOS/system firmware to latest version.
• Swap out RAM modules and try to isolate to see if this occurs with only one installed. If it does, that module may be bad.
• Replace your power supply if it's possible, particularly if you are using an OEM one.
• The GPU itself may be faulty and causing this.
• If it still occurs, you may have a bad motherboard or CPU.