Either it's a heat related issue causing the machine to shut down shortly after start-up or it's a faulty graphics card causing the same.. Either way, a new motherboard is probably the best fix..
Personally, I wouldn't purchase a used laptop that doesn't work as designed.. The expense for repair will be significant. Still, it's up to you.
Hope this helps.
Grif
I don't own a laptop and desperately need one. I am thinking of buying me a used laptop. It is real cheap but I don't know if it is worth the money. This item powers up and boots into Windows XP Pro, and dies shortly after boot, or doesn't come on at all. When the VGA out is used, the machine works fine. Does it sound like something that want cost a bunch to fix? Or does it sound like a major issue? Anyone got any ideas? Thanks for any help! Chris

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