Hi BDF,
post a DXdiag, please.
It shows your relevant computer components, your OS, your installed drivers and the codeces you run.
(START -> run -> "dxdiag" -> Enter)
Work through the tabs and run the tests (Direct3D, Direct Draw, Sound tests...)
Save the information and post it here.
Two more things to try first:
- set the graphics acceleration one notch to the left.
(rightclick the Windows desktop and choose Properties from the popup menu,
click the Settings tab and then click Advanced,
in the next dialog box, click the Troubleshoot tab,
under Hardware acceleration, move the slider one notch to the left.
Click OK as many times as needed to return to the desktop.
- clean your computer! Sounds silly, but a vac is sometimes the only necessary tool to get the hardware running. I guess your computer is old enough to be opened without losing any "warrant".
But be careful and backup your files first.