Computer shutting off randomly?

Hi. I have a Sony PCG-F360 and whenever I try to boot up, my computer just shuts off randomly. I had Windows 98 SE previously, and I tried reinstalling that, but the problem persisted. Only in 'SAFE MODE,' the computer did NOT shut off. Then, I tried upgrading to Windows XP, and it's doing the same thing; it just shuts off randomly.

Now, I already purchased a new motherboard, but am torn between whether it's a hard drive problem, motherboard problem, or something else. Does anyone have any idea what this sounds like? Could it be anything other than what I already mentioned?

Thanks,
Alex

 

Hi speedKing9

Problem stops when in "Safe Mode" would imply it may not be a bootup problem. My question, "shut down" is random. We need to know what that activity is.... computer sitting idle, time frame, loading or closing certain programs, using printer, the CD player? We might need additional information from the following.....
After a normal bootup, immediatly go to Task Manager. Click on Application tab, write down names. Repeat the same for "Processes "... this could be a 25 to 40 plus item list. Post back with the info. Assuming box is stable enough to download "Startup Cop" may be employed to temporarly disable some programs from starting up. Process of elimination. Until we get some more info on what "random shutdown" means, were kind of blind.

 

Hey, thanks for responding. How do I get to the task manager?

It would just shut off while trying to load up Windows XP. It has the screen w/ Windows XP loading up and "ZAP" it's off (and actually, I have to put it in the ON position for a few seconds to actually TURN it off).

I'm lost..and I can't even get to anything on the computer, because it just shuts off pretty much right when the XP window appears.

 

Can you get XP through windows load and a stable screen in "Safe Mode" ???
In normal startup, when screen goes black, is there any click noise from monitor or computer ?? To load "Task Manager" continue to hold and push... Ctrl, Alt, Delete.
BUT... until you can get to a stable windows screen via a normal bootup, is when task manager displays "selected" startup programs / services.