The laptop has started up one time since this problem appeared a couple days ago, but returned to its dead state when I unplugged the AC power (batteries are fully charged).

It does appear as though the problem has something to do with the power system on the unit, however, I will try jiggling the memory and see what happens.

Hi,

It may also be worth reseating the DC card, which sits on top of the motherboard. If it rattles, you may have loose screws inside which can take out the DC card.

                                                                          Regards Chris

I'm having the same problem with my latitude. Did you have any luck?

I've tried re-seating the memory and moving it into the other socket, no luck. I'm trying to figure out what the problem is before making any purchases....memory? battery? is my laptop even worth investing more time/money into?

I put the machine aside, and when I returned from a trip, it was working again. So, I haven't investigated the cause. However, the DC card suggestion sounds most likely to me.

Is there a support knowledgebase link that shows how to find and manipulate the DC card in the CPx?

I wouldn't invest any new money in a CPx, given much better price/performance of new laptops. Question is, should one buy a newer Latitiude? I've had a similar problem pop up on another Latitude (C600) that I haven't tried to track down yet, and I've seen similar postings by others. Is there a Latitude power system design problem that might continue into newer models?