Speedlite 580EX II screen will not stay on and doesn't start up

[Dermot]

Am looking for some help here with my Speedlite - When I switch on the screen comes on for a fraction of a second and does not start up. I've looked at the contacts and they do look ok as there's no corrision appearing. It's the same when I pust the pilot light - a brief flimpse of the screen and then it's gone. 

Thanks mill

[deebatman316]

Are you using know good high quality AA Alkaline Batteries. Lithium Batteries get hot very quickly.