Hello!
I am using an Averatec 7100 series laptop that is running Windows XP. I was using the laptop on Friday when the computer died out of nowhere. I checked to make sure the power source was connected (it was) and I tried to start it by pushing the power button. When that didn't work, I discharged the static electricity by disconnecting the power source, removing the battery, and holding down on the power button for thirty seconds. I then plugged the power cord back in and restarted the computer. Chkdsk ran and said it fixed one problem and the computer started normally and seemed to run better than it had before. So, I put the battery back in and everything was working fine. Until yesterday when the same thing happened again. I once again discharged the electric and it started up again but chkdsk did not run this time.
I am concerned about what is causing this problem and I would like to know if it is something I can FIX or if there is something I need to do to prevent damaging the computer.
Thank you in ADVANCE for your help!
Good morning ambermand WELCOME to CH

#1... Does it seem like the laptop has been running HOT or maybe you have been hearing the fan run and run.

#2... If I remember right on that model shut down the laptop and unplug the ac charger. Now trun the laptop over and look at the back left coner you will see a grid / louvers. Take a tooth pic and put it down thru the grid to the fan and hold it still with the tooth pic and take a can of air and blowing from the bottom out and then when that is clean blow from the side or back grid into the fan until clean.

Here is a picture (not your model)but it will give you an idea of ho to do it.

Please let us know how you make out, Mike For system events, look on to your windows event logs and check on critical marks with details. http://support.microsoft.com/kb/308427Also, do not use it on a "soft" surface such as a blanket or upholstered furniture. The intake vent is usually on the bottom, and the vent on the side is the outlet. a soft surface prevents adequate airflow. (Normally, on a hard surface such as a tabletop, the TINY rubber feet keep a gap between the bottom of the laptop and the surface, allowing adequate airflow; with a soft surface, it "sinks" in so usually the surface is directly against the intake with no gap.

(My laptop will power off if I use it on a soft surface with high CPU USAGE, but works fine when I put a book beneath it on that same surface)