FX 5700 FPS Issue

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Ok, first of all, here are my system specs:

2.4 gig processor
1 gig of RAM
256mb GeForce fx 5700
80 gig HD
Windows XP Pro

Now, whenever I run hl2 i start out with a pretty consistent 50-60 fps, which is quite nice. But as I play the frames continually get worse, i get surges where my frames just reduce to about 19fps for 1-2 seconds then pops back up to normal. This happens even if NOTHING IS GOING ON and im just staring at the same wall. The surges start to happen closer together and more frequently. Reducing the frames even further, until im left with just being at 19 fps, which is essentially unplayable.

So, why is it that my system that is better then the RECOMMENDED requirements can not run this game smoothly?

Has anyone with an FX card had a similar problem? If anyone knows anything about this any help is appreciated.

 

[bosox188]

Hmm... I was thinking it was just loading the next area or something but you said it gets worse, plus you have 1 gig of RAM. Do you have anything else running in the background? Even a virus scanner would do it probably. That could be it. If not I'm not too sure.

 

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No, nothing running in the background. In fact, i actually had to buy a new HD yesterday, so steam is essentially the only thing isntalled besides drivers.