My Computer Keeps On Turning Itself Off

[gordie1]

My computer about 3 times a day will just turn itself off and I will lose all power. It is very annoying any idea why and what I can do about it?

[VHG]

This can happen if it gets too hot.

The inside of a computer (particualerly a laptop) can get very hot and some components (like the CPU) will just "stop working" if they get too hot.

If it is laptop dont use it on top of a cushion, pillow, mattress on a bed or similar item as air cant circulate underneath. Use it on a hard surface or even one of those laptop cooling devices.

If a desktop PC make sure there is plenty of room around it so cool air can be sucked in.

Over time the fans and air vents can clog up with dust and fluff, stopping air getting in and out so maybe use a hair drier to gently blow out any air vents (maybe do this outside) and brush it with a soft brush.

If it still switches off after doing this you may have a hardware problem like a faulty power supply.

[Gizmonster]

In addition to what's already been said - if it's a laptop, it could be a faulty battery.
Our laptop kept losing power, even though the battery showed a decent amount of charge left. When we turned it back on, the battery showed a lot less charge and it needed charging up. Replacing the battery sorted the problem :)

[joko]

if as vhg says, the vents are clogged, buy a can of air duster which should clear them.

you can also but laptop stands that have cooling fans in.

or at least just raise it an inch or so - i used to use 4 eraser in the corners