I am having frequent (every 5 minute) complete power downs. It is worst when I run a game.. but literally happens when powering up too. I am not a tech guy, and I don't know much about checking temps or power supplies, though i have heard those are the most probable causes. I have turned off the "automatic restart" option to eliminate ghost blue screen warnings. But the system keeps turning off repeatedly. Im running a Custom machine with the following specs: AMD 64 X2 3800+ Processor Geforce fx 6800xt graphics card 1.79 Gig ram 450 PSU Windows XP The system has a total of 6 fans counting 2 case fans, 1 processor, 1 motherboard, 1 graphics card, 1 PSU. I can find out any other necessary information as needed.

"checking temps or power supplies, though i have heard those are the most probable causes." I certainly agree with that. You can usually (but not always) check your temperatures and voltages by running the bios 'Setup' routine. On one of the first screens you get when you boot up, you should see a line on the bottom of the screen tht says something like 'hit the delete key (or one of the F keys) to enter setup'. You will have to scan through the screens to find the information. All Bios' are not the same. The case temp should about the 30s & maybe low 40s, and the CPU temp should be about the 40s and maybe low 50s. The box may need to be cleaned. Use a can of compressed air. Do not use a vacuum cleaner, they can cause a static failure. The power supply might have to be swapped to eliminate it as the problem.

I took time today and ran the bios, temps are right on the money where they should be, I cleaned out all the inside of the box, fans, and the Processor cooling assembly, but its still giving me problems. So I am guessing PSU, ive seen replacement 450 Watt PSU for 15 bucks up to 100 bucks.. anyone know if there is a specific or important thing to pay attention too beside wattage?

If your Geforce fx 6800xt needs a special power connection, you need to watch for that. The power supply wattage rating can be misleading. Look for a high amperage rating on the +12 volts. If you have access to another system, you might consider swapping its power supply in for a test. Just make sure the colors of the wires on the connector look pretty much the same on the two connectors. Some of the PC manufacturers have used non-standard motherboards and power supplies.

Ok, so i turned the comp on today, and everything flashed for a second, (lights and fans), but then died, wont turn on at all anymore. Is this a sign the PSU finally died completely? the current PSU is a OKIA 8460BTX, can get a new one for 30 bucks.. should i just go ahead?

FINAL NOTE: i went ahead and replaced the PSU with a new model, 450 watt, from Comp USA. Everything is perfect with the system now. Thank you for your help, hope other people with the same problem can learn from this.