A computer of that age may very well be suffering from the bad electrolytic
cap problem. Go to this thread on that problem.
http://groups.google.com/groups?hl=e... .windows.misc

If the link doesn't work, it's at comp.windows.misc and look for the subject
"computer resetting - may not be windows' fault but please help".

WT


"Bennett Price" wrote in message
m...
Caroline wrote:
First, for a personal computer, is the phrase "power transformer" often
used
interchangeably with "power supply"? Below I am assuming yes.

I purchased a Gateway Essential 900c in September, 2001. I get a fair
amount of
crashes (freezes; requires shutdown; reboot with scan) with it. A
friend told
me Gateways were notorious for having poor power transformers.

In others' experience, would it be worthwhile to replace the power
transformer?

What's the identifying information on the transformer (so I know what to
ask for
at a shop)?

About how much should the transformer cost?

Where is it located inside the casing? (I'll also start researching this
on my
own. I have had the computer apart for cleaning before. I'm pretty handy
and
have a decent mechanical and electrical background.)

What's a good place to buy a transformer?

Might E-bay have these transformers?

Thanks in advance.



The problem may not be hardware at all. If you are using Windows 9x or
ME, Microsoft is most likely the problem.