Computer Keeps Shutting Down It Won't Stay On

[Family Ties Forever!]

My Vista cmputer all of a sudden won't stay on. Yesterday it shut down by itself. I turned it back on. It shut back down again. Then once again I turned it on and it turned itself off. Anyone have this problem or know why the computer can't stay on?

I'm currently using the XP computer.

[Waterston_Fan]

Do you hear a few quick clicks when you turn it on or when it is loading?

If you do, it might be the motherboard. I know I had a problem when my computer's motherboard went on the fritz.

I can't remember if it turned off or if it rebooted but there were times when it rebooted.

[robyrob]

reboot into SAFEMODE (http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/tutorials/tutorial61.html#vista) (tap the F8 function key as it boots up and select the "Safemode with networking" option)

if it shuts down in Safemode, its a hardware problem and you should take it somewhere to get looked at (not BestBuy).

[AKA]

I had that problem with two different Compaq desktops years ago. It was due to overheating - the fans weren't sufficient to cool my system, and it was recommended I get a cooling system for my tower.

Next time that happens, feel inside your tower. If it's excruciatingly hot, that's probably the problem.

[Faith]

My husband just had that problem with his, and it was his power supply needed to be replaced.