computer suddenly stops and fan runs fast

Hi i'm having a problem with my computer, every so often the screen will go black and the fan will start spinning at full speed (the speed difference can be heard clearly). It doesnt seem to happen when the computer is under intense load just at random times.
Its a windows 7 HP touchsmart 300 - 1015 Uk, it has standard 2GB ram, but when this is happening the CPU usage is only around 50% and doesnt seem to be running too hard.

Thanks Tony.

 

Its probably overheating. I would suggest open it up and give it a goo clean with compressed air or a vacum. Pay special attention to the CPU Heatsink

 

When you put a lot of electronics in a small space, OVER HEATING is just a natural result.

You could try setting the power management app to spin down the HD after 5 minutes of inactivity. And/Or blank the screen after ten minutes.
This can greatly reduce the heat generated inside that case.

I did some Google searches on that model and the reviews were NOT encouraging.
Had I ever thought of getting one of those PC's, I would re-think that.

I just rebuilt an HP Slimline PC, given to me after the power supply died.
I opened up the bad PSU to find many Bulging Electrolytic Capacitors. The PC is only about 2 years old. Heat, destroys electrical components.

Good Luck,
The Shadow :cool