I was just wondering how I can determine if my motherboard has gone bad.

When I boot the computer sometimes it loads normally and sometimes it doesn't. When it doesn't load I either receive a black screen with a blinking cursor or an error message about how some system32 file is missing. Each time it's a different system32 file.
I've had this problem before and last time it was concluded that the issue was with my hard drive. I've since had my hard drive replaced and Windows reinstalled.

Since my computer was factory shipped I've replaced the video card, fans, hard drive, and power supply. However the mobo has yet to receive an update, so I assume that it may be the cause of the startup issue.

The only problem is I haven't the slightest idea what type of mobo it is. I've run several programs(such as EVEREST) to determine who manufactured it, but it always is displayed as "unknown".
There is also nothing on the mobo itself that indicates what type it is.
Searching for motherboard using the model of my computer(a Gateway e4300) I have found some references to "South Lake". However I have been unable to determine anything else.

So, how do I go about testing this unknown mobo?What brand and wattage ids the replacement PSU ? ?
Have you ran MemTest to check the RAM ? ?

Tough to track down board PROBLEMS so it's best to eliminate everything else 1st...IF your trying to find the model number and the company who makes the MB it should have a print between the RAM  and the cpu. if thats not what you are looking for please re-correct me. THANKS  Sounds like the hard drive is bad. When you replaced the drive did you use the same data cable? How long has it been since you installed windows? Did you make any changes to your system right before this started?Is this the "same" computer as your previous thread <Windows root>\system32\hal.dll.

While I understand your desire to consider all "possibilities", you should at least link the two threads together (so all the data is available).

How old is the computer?

In the other thread, you mentioned it was running slower, perhaps you should monitor any "temperature sensors" that might be available on the motherboard or else where. Quote from: patio on January 19, 2010, 04:48:45 PM

What brand and wattage ids the replacement PSU ? ?
Have you ran MemTest to check the RAM ? ?

Tough to track down board problems so it's best to eliminate everything else 1st...

IF your trying to find the model number and the company who makes the MB it should have a print between the RAM  and the cpu. if thats not what you are looking for please re-correct me. thanks 

Sounds like the hard drive is bad. When you replaced the drive did you use the same data cable? How long has it been since you installed windows? Did you make any changes to your system right before this started?

Is this the "same" computer as your previous thread <Windows root>\system32\hal.dll.

While I understand your desire to consider all "possibilities", you should at least link the two threads together (so all the data is available).

How old is the computer?

In the other thread, you mentioned it was running slower, perhaps you should monitor any "temperature sensors" that might be available on the motherboard or else where.

I am unsure about how to edit my first post so that it may include the link. I can't seem to find an edit button...

I wasn't even aware that there were temp sensors in the computer. How do I access them?

If you are going to buy a new mono, you want to think about getting one that is compatible with the parts you have.
Do you have CPU-Z?
http://www.cpuid.com/
The above program tells a lot about your system. It may not ID you mobo, but it will tel you what CPU you have. and some additional information. Like the chip set.  It would be nice to get a new MoBo with he same chip set so you don't have to install drivers all over again. Maybe. 

The "modify" button I believe...
See Is there a way to tell how hot my CPU is running?.