I have a Toshiba A15-S129 laptop that no longer works. When I turn it on, it stays on anywhere from 1-5 minutes, then turns off as if the power was just lost. It seems as though I found a website with the solution, but I am not sure if it will fix the problem.

http://irisvista.com/tech/laptops/To...assembly_1.htm

If you look at step 6, it says the problem is due to overheating. However, if the computer is overheating, could the CPU and motherboard have permanent damage? Would the problem be fixed by simply cleaning the heat sync?

I would appreciate anyone's help. I just want to try and avoid completely disassembling the notebook for nothing.

My laptop (Compaq M2031AP) used to do that, but I actually got a 1-second fullscreen message (not from the OS) saying something like "CPU temp 80C - turning off." I cleaned out the fan and heatsink and it's fine now. If it is overheating, you should be able to feel the heat coming off it. You should also avoid resting it on your lap, and instead put it on a flat surface (not carpet) and make sure the vents aren't blocked.

Ok. Well, I will check the heat sync and try to unclog it. Hopefully that is the problem, otherwise it probably needs a mother board replacement. A new laptop is cheaper than a motherboard replacement these days..

Cleaning the heat sync fixed the problem. Anyone else who is experiencing this, hopefully you will see this post before getting ripped off to have it fixed.