I agree with MK - it sounds like a graphics adapter problem, or possibly insufficient system memory (but probably the GA). First see if the laptop's adapter is 128-bit and OpenGL. Next check
Autodesk's Hardware Requirements. Note that a number of conflicts are posted for Inventor 10, including Google's Desktop Search. You will probably find that Inventor will be less problematic if you have
no other applications loaded while it is running. That includes IM. Especially IM - even if it doesn't interfere with the application, it distracts the user!
What version of Inventor is being used?