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quick question about gateway computer

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by rob_cru

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i have a friend with a gateway computer. I dont konw the model number but it is about three years old and I do have a serial number. Not sure if that will help. The computer is running Windows ME. It first started by not loading ME completely, then power went out and it would not turn back on. Eventually it turned on but windows did not load completely. Once it turned on my friend was able to log onto the internet, but computer turned off. When it does turn on and off, it will not load completely. Tried going in safe mode but still no luck. Is there anything else I can do?

6 replies

by tech_wiz03

Suspect harddrive fragmentation issue and corrupt system files on one hand and failing motherboard on the other hand.

Suggestions:
1) Get a copy a win98se bootdisk with cdrom emulation support, also get a copy of norton disk doctor of harddisk mechanic and do a test of the harddisk.
2) Re-install windows ME (may loose files with this method)

hope this helps
rick

by jschein

My suggestion... Gateway, Dell, and some other places have a FREE PICKUP for old pc's to be destroyed...

Windows ME is not a stable OS,... And it sure as heck isn't stable on an old gateway which was built with faulty motherboard parts.

If you still persist in using ME instead of 98se, goto gateway.com , do a driver search, and put in your pc's serial #. See if there is a BIOS update to fix compatability issues with ME or find any other references to troubleshooting that pc... Usually there is something there that will help you better than guessing at the red wire, or green wire.

Good luck

by tommy46

If your friend has a system cd which he should have got when he bought the pc from gateway there should be a program on iy called nvram. Read the instructions then run the program as it is possible there maybe a virus in cmos of the pc. It is not a complicated proceedure and dosen't take too much time to do.
Good luck,
Tommy

by charles_j_smith

I know its already been stated above, but I would simply format c:

Windows ME is Microsoft's worst Operating System ever. I'd install Windows 98 or tell your friend to go out and buy a 500.00 Dell with XP on it and then just use the Gateway as a test machine. Maybe install Linux on it if he has those interests or sell it without an OS on it.

Just my 2 cents.. good luck..

by thechas

I wonder if there was a power surge when the power went out.

If so, the power supply or the motherboard could be damaged.

Chas

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