probably an easy question

[theyweresuited]

hey guys and gals,

I am somewhat of a moron when it comes to computers. I'm sure you guys will be able to tell me for sure if I just need a new monitor or if there is another problem.

I'll be playing poker or just surfing the net and my screen will go to all white. If I wait a minute or two though it seems to come back to normal. A couple times it hasn't and I shut down everything and then it works again.

I got the computer and the monitor about 3 years ago. The monitor is a Dell 17" flat screen. Hopefully, that is all the info needed. Afriend told me that my monitor was probably going to crap and that all I should have to do is buy a new one. Is this a possibility or do I have bigger problems???

[JayF]

Is it possible for you to try another monitor? It sounds like your monitor is overheating.

[theyweresuited]

I don't have another monitor but I thought about just going and buying one and seeing if that was the problem. if it is overheating, could i just get a new monitor and my problem would be solved??