My laptop is an Acer Aspire V5-552P-X440.
I have not been able to replicate the issue in safe mode yet, but I have only conducted limited testing of the laptop in safe mode since it is quite boring to do so! Unfortunately, I will need to boot it to safe mode more.
I have not been able to try everything that you have recommended yet...I tried disabling all non-Microsoft services, but my entire computer still freezes.
Also, just to make sure you are clear, when I say my computer freezes, I mean that the ENTIRE computer is unresponsive. I can't move my mouse or do anything. It is as if someone has placed a static image on my monitor. The only resolution is to perform a hard restart.
I will try the advice in this article: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929135 and see if by disabling some startup services that the problem will be fixed.
I will also be checking the manufacturer website for the latest display driver.
Thank you for your time! I just wanted to update you on what has been happening as of late.