Thanks to all who have replied this far. Unfortunately, I can�t access the PC today. I recall yesterday as follows:

1. Pressed power button. Green light on PC case came on an light to DVD, CDRW, and floppy drives flashed as did the lights on the keyboard
2. I think there was one short. If so it�s normal for that system.
3. The normal sounds of an XP system going through the POST process did not occur
4. The green light on the case dimmed.
5. The monitor displayed the �no signal� message� never anything more

I want to test the electrics in the attic study in which the PC lives (or has died) before calling in a techie to remove the HD.

I let you know how things proceed.

Meanwhile, many thanks for your input.

My preferred HDD nuke - http://public.snapon.com/R_RRD/Objects_lg/images/BP1...

That�s what will have to happen since I can�t resort nuke software but I�m going to have to get in a techie to open the case and extract the drive

External electrics in the room all work OK and the PC won�t boot from another electrical outlet.