Can bad Athlon XP process cause shutdown

Yes it can.
But it happens rarely. It is more likely due to RAM(s). Make sure the RAM(s) are seating tight. It could be one or more RAMs are defective or not compatible.

More likely, that the BIOS is sensing a problem and shutting down the system.

It is VERY unusual for an ATX system to power up without the CPU.

Things to check:

CPU fan: has an RPM sensor, and is connected to the proper CPU fan connector on the motherboard.

Clear CMOS jumper: set to normal. Many motherboards are shipped with the jumper set to clear.

Thermal sensor under the CPU: Make sure that the sensor is not cracked or shorted out.

Chas

1 Long Beep: Memory problem
Explanation: There is a failure of some sort related to the system memory.
Diagnosis: The first bank of memory probably has a failure of some sort; this is usually just a physical problem such as an incorrectly inserted module, but may also mean a bad memory chip in a module. It is possible that there is a failure related to the motherboard or a system device as well.

Continuous Beeping: Memory or video problem
Explanation: The system is producing constant beeping in no specific pattern, or a fast "ringing" sound. Diagnosis: This is usually caused by a problem with the system memory, or possibly the video card. The memory is more likely--the system complains long and loud if it can't find any usable memory, as there is no way to even start the boot process when this is the case. The motherboard itself could also be the problem.

When I say the system stayed powered up I meant the power supply and fan came on and stayed on without shutting off completly. The answer about the RAM being the problem, well I removed the RAM all together and turned the system on with only the processor and no devices. The original problem was still there. The only time the power supply stays on constantly is when processor is not plugged in, regardless of RAM being in place or not. There is no jumper for the BIOS therefore it must be set to normal or (default).

Point value changed by question poster.

Your BIOS need update.

well what kind of mainboard? I've had a Soyo mainboard do the same thing [think it was the KT333 LITE] which the problem was due to having the CPU fan power/rpm molex connector on the wrong mainboard pin connector. Drove me nuts until I checked their web site forums and found an article on it.

TheChas is right in that its very rare [I've never seen it] that the system would even turn on let alone beep then power up without a processor installed.

POST is usually the same regardless of BIOS mfg and mainboard mfg. Basically, the first three POST tests are 1. system power on 2. chipset initialization 3. memory detection
4th & 5th are BIOS to Ram , then keyboard initialization.

Only real way to know if the processor is bad is to put a known good one in the machine and turn it on or put that suspected bad one in a known good machine.

This can be a lot of things, but the processor is very, very unlikely.(One in ten million.)
A bad processor will normally do nothing. (Burnout)

Bad RAM usually causes BIOS beeps, but the powersupply stays running. ("Boot just freezes")

The overcurrent sensor in the power supply can be failing. (25 Percent)

Short on motherboard. (15 Percent) (Usually Lightning, or Physical Damage.)

There can be a loose screw in the system causing a partial short. (9 Percent)

There can be a bent pin in a plug, causing a short. (8 Percent)

The Motherboard could be shorted to the case, because of an installation error. (7 Percent)

The CPU Temperature sensor on the MB can be bad. (6 Percent)

The CPU fan sensor can be bad, or not connected. (6 Percent.)

The bearings on the Hard Disk can be frozen, causing the HD to draw "start up current" (5 Percent)

Other (19 Percent)

Unfortunately, troubleshooting this problem is a process of elimination. Start with the most likely, and work down.
Regards, Chris

With XP processors, motherboards are "technically" required to have protection for CPU cooling failure, usually based on CPU fan RPM. I know specifically ABit motherboards will shut down after 10 seconds if the CPU fan is spinning less than 4000 RPM. This was a problem for me when using a heatsink with a big 80mm low RPM fan. I had to flash the BIOS on that board to be able disable the protection feature.

I appreciate everyones help on this matter. This really is great site for professional help. I found out that the problem is a bad M/B and have a new one on route. Thank you all.

This question was closed by the author