I'm having a strangely similar problem with my 3yr old HP Desktop... never had a problem with the pc. I was working the other day, and heard a short 'pop' a few seconds later the pc powers off. Now when I try to start it, it powers off after several (maybe 15-20) seconds. If I try it again immediately, it doesn't even last 2 seconds before powering down.

First I thought it was a power supply problem, but have replaced that part with no luck. Also checked the RAM, which is fine, and was able to install & check my harddrive in my other PC, no problems there.

Anyone have an idea?

Hope you don't mind my jumping in on this thread rawilli, your story was so familiar...

Split from http://www.d-a-l.com/help/showthread...d=1#post105167

I would suggest removing everything from the motherboard except the CPU; one stick of RAM in the first slot; Graphics Card (if no onboard chip); and PSU.

Try with the case open and observe all the fans etc.

If it is shutting down after 2 or 3 seconds check that the power switch is not sticking.

If it stays on longer feel the air coming off the CPU. Is it Hot; Warm; or Cold?

You could also try to clear the CMOS.

Any idea what that POP was?

Sounds like a capacitor on your motherboard may have gone sour and exploded.