Like an idiot, I plugged my laptop into an unprotected power outlet.  Stupid!, I know.  of course,  sudden lightning storm, power failure, now laptop is a PAPER WEIGHT.  Is there any salvaging it.  Can parts be replaced.  Or should I just start looking for a new one?Lightning will fry up every electrical device in your PC. Nothing useful can be salvaged. It's best to look for a new computer.

These things happen. Even if it wasn't just plugged directly to the wall, no surge suppressor can PROTECT againist a bolt of lightning hit directly. The safest thing in a storm is just to have your laptop unplugged.

[glb]Gizmo73[/glb]I agree. Most if not all parts are now damaged... It depends on the strength of the lightning strike... Also, having one or two parts salvaged will not help you much... You would end-up replacing most of the parts anyay. Looking for a new one would be a good idea...

[glb]Flame[/glb]Thanks, you confirmed my suspicions.  Any suggestions for a lightweight laptop.  I don't play games, just the usual work and research type stuff.WELL, it depends on how much you want to spend, but the Dell Inspiron 700M is VERY small...

[glb]Flame[/glb]I suggest that you check to see if the LCD screen is still functional. There seems to be quite a demand for these, people look for them to replace their own damaged LCD screens.

Also test the Hard DISK Drive to see if it is still functioning and capable of storing data.

The RAM can be easily removed and tested as well, but given the fact that RAM is very sensitive I doubt that the results will be positive.