t42p dead?

[joekiser]

First of all, I apologize that my first post is a complaint, but this thing has been driving me insane!

My new (used) T42p had all of the symptoms of a loose GPU...it would reset itself if moved, bumped, or if the stars were aligned just right. No problem, I'm a pretty easy going person, so I just set it on a desk and decided to reflow the connections later. Well after a few weeks of using the computer as a desktop with no problems, I decided to give it another try in my lap. Bad idea. In the middle of web browsing, the computer completely died--that is--no screen, no fan sounding, not even the LED that lights up whenever the battery is charging. I replaced the battery with one of many that I have lying around, still no response. So now, defeated, I come to type this post and in the other room I hear...the KDE login sound. It appears that after being dead for an hour or so, my T42p has come back to life, and gained the ability to turn itself on.

So my questions are, is this a symptom of a loose GPU or are there other lurking problems? Is my motherboard dying? Reflowing loose connectors on a SMT board is not beyond my area of expertise, but I'd rather not waste my time if there is another problem elsewhere.

[Harryc]

Loosen the keyboard enough to get at the top of the GPU. With the unit on, push down (and/or tap) on or around the GPU with your finger. If it shuts off you have your answer.

[closersource]

Just out of curiosity where was your T42P motherboard made?