Processor shuts down

[Wendy_34]

I have a Pavillion XT921 cpu and it has less than 30 hours of use. It belonged to my mother (who has passed) and was rarely used, although it is OUT of warranty. I use a laptop, but I do use the Pavillion at least once a week to do updates, etc., so this is not a virus problem. Here's what's going on:

I got online this morning to check for any new updates. None were available (windows XP) but I did update my zonealarm. Upon restart, the processor just shutdown by itself. I fiddled with the plug, got it going, and before windows could completely load, it shutdown again. I switched to a new power strip, but the same problem. I thought that maybe the fan was dead, but I don't feel any great heat source. I can fiddle with the plug, and eventually get it started, but it just keeps shutting down. Any suggestions?? :)

Thanks.

[Perignon]

Wendy,

Presuming (but I might be wrong) that the CPU is still OK, consider checking out the whole cooling system.

Many recent CPUs incorporate overheating protection. They would either lower-down or stop when overheating incident occur.

Alain.

[Wendy_34]

Thank you, Pérignon. I think that I have the problem narrowed down to either the power source, or the on/off switch. Since I can't figure out how to check the switch, I ordered a new power source. I think that it may have a short, since I can jiggle the cord and the green light comes on in the back, but when I let go of the cord, the light goes out and the system shuts down. Yep, I'm just guessing, but I'm gonna take a chance. lol If nothing else, I'll have a spare. :)

[Perignon]

Wendy,

Correct assessment, bad or lose connection is also a likely suspect.

Alain.

[Wendy_34]

Pérignon,

I just wanted to let you know that my problem was the power source. After installing a new one, I'm up and running.

Thanks for the suggestions.