O.K. my recommendation is to check all the fans in the case. I know that particular series is either Slot A or maybe a Socket A. Compaq didn't include a Fan on the CPU for the Slot A processors and they are prone to overheating. If this is the case with yours (the CPU will be a long rectangular Box standing up right in the Case, much like a Pentium 2-3 Slot 1) I would reccommend buying a new CPU or just replacing the system.
Remove the power cord form the back of the system!!
You open the case by undoing the the thumb screws on the(If staring at the front of the case) left side and sliding it off. Next lay the system down so that you are staring into it. Then there are two large screws on the top back at either side of the back case that you remove to swing the PSU and the top half down to access the CPU and expansion slots. look to see if the CPU is a socket a or slot A if Slot A don't touch the damned thing it'll burn your finger! If socket A (It will look like a small square heatsink with a fan on it.) plug the power back into the PSU and push the power button. See what fans spin up. They all should so if one doesn't then it needs to be replaced. Hold the power button in until the system shuts off and cycle the system a few more times. Sometimes movement will free a fan to spin for a small amount of time but it will stop working shortly. Then report bacl to us with your findings.
I offer no warrenty on my advice. If you kill yourslef it's not my fault.
