I recently posted all the hardware I had for my first build. It's under "Need initial tips on a first build." I have it all put together. The PC starts up and seems to be running fine, I go into the CMOS or boot from the DVD drive and it goes fine for a little while. After about 30-45 seconds, the computer shuts down on its own. I'm awful at debugging this type of problem, and I don't know where to begin my search. Everything runs fine, no weird noises.

If anyone can help me figure out this problem, I would really appreciate it.

An easy way to check is to turn on the puter and check if the CPU fan is working. if it is then thats not ur issue. Im trying to think what the issue could be, considering its all new gear?
Does it crash at the same spot everytime?
Ive had a similar problem that fixed itself. It came down to being the CD drive. How many install attempts have you made?

Double checking everything is installed/plugged in right, or making sure only the bare bones equipment is plugged in may be an option. It doesnt make sense but Ive experienced issues where the puter doesnt want to start/install on a fresh build with all the new gear plugged in. After installing the OS on bare bones and then plugging in my 'extras' everything is smooth...

Other than that, I havent a clue.

As for the POST beep codes ... Each boot has one beep, and one beep only. I was speaking with some people, and they seemed sure that is was my CPU overheating. Here comes the noob question of the day: Do stock CPU fans have thermal compound pre-applied?

I ordered from Newegg a little under a week ago, so I can't imagine it to have been on a shelf for too long. None the less, I'm going to go out and get some good thermal paste today... Hopefully that will solve the issue. Otherwise, I'm clueless.

edit: I got the CPU fan off, now all I need to do is properly clean the garbage thermal off. How would I go about properly cleaning it?

Alright will do, thank you. Once I get this done and re-apply new paste, I'll post an update.

Rice grain-sized dab, spread across the entire CPU. Correct?

what makes u think the CPU is over heating tho? even running the CPU without the paste should be fine under normal conditions? or so I thought...

Well, I'm quite happy to say that the thermal compound was a complete success. I don't know how to thank you, LH, as well as everyone else on HTG that has aided me in this process. I'd literally be lost without you guys.