Gave it a try this morning. However, I had had an afternoon nap so I really wasn't tired at all when the 4 second alarm sounded, but I could feel that feeling of being on the verge of a WILD almost straight away so I'm sure there's some truth in this.
Tonight i'll get a proper night's sleep and see how we go...

I'm using an old PC in my room which I only use for word processing, but the fan might be too loud. I'm thinking of using ear plugs and turning up the speaker volume, however, this might affect my ability to hear my actual alarm (the one that makes sure i wake up for work) and if the ear plugs fall out during the night, I will be startled awake by the loud speaker volume....oh well, someone find an appropriate alarm clock already...