I have an odd problem. Upon switching on the computer, the usual XP boot-up screen appears, but then the monitor goes into standby mode and the computer does not proceed. XP will run in Safe Mode upon subsequent re-boots. Noticed that in BIOS the text is slightly garbled with random characters scattered across the screen. But XP in safe mode looks normal, no graphical problems. I am at a loss to figure out the problem. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. NB: Computer has not been connected to the internet for many months, probem only started recently.

Sounds like your video card is going bad.

Please let us know if you found someone's advice to be helpful.

I agree. But if it is a card, you could try reseating it. Power off and unplug the AC cord before doing that.