It wasn't really HP's fault, with the DV series - it was the NVidia GPU, and the problem cropped up with both Intel and AMD chipsets in various brands and models. That said, HP didn't really help themselves out by failing to provide intake vents under the fan, but this is easily fixed by removing the motherboard and drilling a series of small holes into the bottom plastic. They go from screeching ovens to perfectly usable laptops almost instantly.

If the machine's already shagged, incidentally, you can try reflowing the GPU. Works most of the time, and all you need is a couple of screwdrivers and a heat gun (the ones used for removing wallpaper are fine). And an hour or so.
( Happy Phantom has been to Hastings, Brighton, and Eastbourne too, Wed 9 May 2012, 20:42, Reply)