Operating System Not Found

[bingbang]

Hello.

I have a Gateway Laptop-dont know the exact model. Lately, I've noticed that sometimes when I boot up the computer, it gives me an "Operating System Not Found" error. It doesnt do this everytime, only sometimes. Usually when this happens, I can wait a few minutes and restart and XP will begin to load normally.

Also, there is a noticable clicking noise coming from the computer when I use it for an extended time. Is this due to overheating?

Thanks for your help.

Roger

[abz1nthe]

Wow first time I've heard of someone recovering from an "Operating system not found" message. Usually that means you need to either repair to replace missing/corrupt files or have to reinstall the operating system altogether.

If I was you I would start by backing up any important files you may have on your computer.

The clicking could be an internal fan catching on something could be dust bunnies or some other foreign object lodged in there. I wouldn't recommend taking apart your laptop to amend that issue but if your laptop is still under warranty it might be a good idea to send it in and have it checked out.

Laptops are known for overheating issues they have all kinds of different peripherals that can help with that. Usually propping it something that will allow the air to flow beneath it will help but they have all kinds of stuff out there just gotta do a little research.

[sach2]

My first thought was the HardDrive was going. Try Belarc advisor to see what it says about the S.M.A.R.T. status of your HD. SMART is just a HD monitoring software that tries to give you a little warning before HD failure.

Either way I'd take abz1nthe's advice and backup any critical personal files.

[plodr]

The clicking you hear is probably your hard drive dying.
Save your files and buy another drive because I wouldn't trust the one you are using.

[earlwhite05]

i would agree with both sach2 and plodr b/c i have had the same problem clicking and all and i lost the hard drive all together files and all. so dont over look it,i would get it checked out asap.