laptop problem...hard drive related?

[imported_Jorge]

I have a Presario 1700T with the same problem. I think it is heat related and here is why:

1) Laptop lasts longer when it has been off for a long time. (it lasts ~10 minutes as opposed to 2 to 3 min. when it is already warm)
2) Shuts off even within BIOS setup utility -> can't be HD related.
3) I have two pairs of memory modules (2x128 MB and 2x256 MB) -> still shuts off -> can?t be the RAM.
4) I took it apart and connected the fan to a 5V external power supply, so that it is always on -> computer lasted longer. (~15 min) -> can?t be a faulty fan because it is running.
5) Replaced thermal pad on CPU with Arctic Silver 5 thermal paste -> computer lasted even longer. (~45min)

The problem, however, still exists. I took it completely apart and found 3 thermal pads on 3 other chips under motherboard. I replaced the pads with generic (Radio Shack) thermal paste (I ran out of Arctic Silver), but it didn?t seem to make any difference.
I am planning on replacing that paste with Arctic Silver, and buying a cooling pad to rest the laptop on it.
I have checked the voltage on my power supply, and it is a constant 19.72 V. However, I have not tested current supply (amps) which could still be the issue when the power supply gets hot. I don?t think this is the problem as I have left the power supply plugged in all this time and it has always been hot. This does not rule it out, however.

Also, every time I run a ?timed? test I run the antivirus scan on the disk to make the processor do some work (as a way creating a repeatable testing condition).

I'll let you know on the cooling pad thing...

 

[dztran]

I have the exact same problems with my Presario 1700 xl360. I went through all the steps as you have described. Replacing the original silver tape with Artic Silver5 AND placing a fan cooler under the notebook (Antec notebook cooler from Staples) seems to help. My first application of the Artic Silver5 stuff was insufficient, too thin. I did have to re-apply the stuff. I'll use the machine for the next few days and I'll let you know. CPU intensive processes such as ripping songs in Itunes, etc... used to lock-up or shut down my notebook. It is not doing that anymore.
The Artic Silver5 manufacturer does recommend a break-in period after application, e.g. the laptop being on for a few hours, then off, then on, etc... I'll keep the notebook running for a few days after this break-in period to see how it does.

 

[impemonk]

no worries man, I will help you fix this.

MC BUMP!