Inspiron e1505 - Screen goes black and it shuts down on its own

Inspiron e1505:
INTEL CORE DUO T2400 1.83Ghz CPU SL8VQ 2M 667
Integrated Video Card
2 - 512MB DDR2 4200S 1.8v
WLAN Card
Windows XP Pro SP 2

The issue started when the laptop was shut down normally, and started again. It would initially boot to Windows, then after 30 or so seconds of being in Windows, the screen would go black and stay that way for about 15 seconds, then it would power off. I covered all of the power settings both in Windows and the BIOS and it is not set to shut down, hibernate or go standby.

I once supported Dell laptops and this one is a brain-buster.

The same thing would happen whether it was running on battery alone, battery with charger or charger sans battery.
After a while, it would not even POST. The power indicator would light for 15 seconds then shut off.
I removed all hardware (CRU's) HDD, Memory, WLAN, DVD Drive and CPU and it did the exact same thing, no matter what I added to the Motherboard one at a time. BTW, the CPU cooling fan was new as well.

I replaced the Motherboard. It would then boot to Windows and after about 1-2 minutes would do the same thing. Screen goes black, then after 15 to 30 seconds, it powers off. I replaced the CPU, same thing. HDD, same thing.
I ran the diags and it would do it while diags was running in different places, so I couldn't pinpoint what might have been causing it. Up to the points of shut down, all hardware would pass.

I removed all connections from the MB to the video screen (including the lid switch) and ran it externally, the same thing happened. I removed the WLAN card, same thing.

As a last resort, I "upgraded" the memory because it seemed to be running a little hot there. I tried two 1GB Dell SODIMMs direct replacements for the ones mentioned above, but it won't POST with either in Slot A or B. I get one steady light and two constant flashing lights (as if there was no memory installed)

Strangely, it WILL POST with ONE of the old DIMMS in Slot A and one of the new DIMMs in Slot B, but it still experiences the same issue.

I have been working on computers for 17 years and this is kicking my ass.

The only thing that I haven't physically replaced is the the battery (doesn't overheat and shows all lights when charged) and the AC Adapter (it doesn't overheat either, and the same thing happens whether it's plugged in or not)

Anyone have any ideas as to what I might have overlooked?

 

That is quite bizarre. From the sound of it, you basically have a different computer now, except for the battery and AC adapter. Have you considered trying a different OS, like a Linux boot CD or a copy of Vista if you have it laying around, just to make sure it happens across the board in all of them? Because you seem to have pretty much covered everything hardware related. You could go for broke and replace the battery and AC adapter just to be sure.

You say you replaced the RAM with the exact same type. Same brand? That could be a factor. I've seen issues with some laptops not liking Crucial brand and switching them to Kingston or some other name of the same spec resolved the problem. Just a thought. Honestly, that is one of the most perplexing scenarios I've ever heard. Since the RAM is basically the only hardware component that seems to be doing anything quirky, as in not letting you run with the two new sticks and getting along with one old and one new, I think I'd focus on that for now.

 

I've had experiences where I stuck in new RAM and because it was not properly installed, the computer wouldnt boot up and the power light would just flash on and off, but removing and reinstalling the RAM worked like a charm.

 

As far as the memory, It had Samsung in it when it started and I originally replaced it with a 1 GB Samsung memory DIMM to no avail. It would not POST. I am very certain I am installing it correctly and am very careful with the DIMMs, static electricity-wise (I always use a ground strap and don't touch the blades) When I can get it to POST, and go into the BIOS, it does show the 1.5GB of RAM (the 512 along with the 1 GB DIMM)

I then replaced the Samsung DIMM with a Dell DIMM and the same thing happened.

The issue is independent of OS, because it happens also when running on-board diags, sans HDD and after I replaced the HDD, I installed a different version of XP that had originally been on the other HDD. The only thing besides the Power pieces that I can think MIGHT be contributing, and this is a long shot, could be the Power switch circuit board, but would not affect the memory issue.

Thanks for the help. I will muddle through and post the resolution if/when I figure it out.

 

Did your new MObo come from dell? It may be DOA*Dead on arrival*

I currently have the same issue with my inspiron e1505 as well. But am out of warranty. I work the small business line for dell. basically I would get the mobo replaced as well as the powersupply/cabling. I do hope you are in warranty...

Maybe buy complete care and have them send you a replacement