Hi Al,
Yes thats a very comon problem but one that sony ericsson doent let you get repaired easily. Its basically the software, but not the one you are able to update yourself!
Its the bootloader part of the phones memory thats become damaged and needs reinstalling to make it operational again.
Although you cant do this yourself, there are people out here who can. I offer a very reasonable service with a fee of just £5 for the repair and you pay for the postage for the phone to be sent to me and to be returned by way of pre paid self addressed padded envelope.
If you would like me to perform the repair for you, then please contact myself by email at drewishuk@yahoo.com or you can give me a call on 01709 378252 (UK Only) and i can give you further information.
Andy
Andy, June 2008