Backup Programs Crash Computer - Norton & Genie

I'm having a problem getting my computer backed up. I was using Norton Ghost, but it crashes the computer. I don't actually see it crash, but sometime after I've started the backup, I come back and Windows XP Pro has re-booted and I see a message that says "Windows has recovered from a critical (or maybe it says severe) error". It then asks if I want to send info to Microsoft.

Well, I switched to Genie Backup, but I get the same thing.

Otherwise, I'm having no problems with my system and run Avast! antivirus and Spybot S&D daily.

Any suggestions?

Thx,

Cash