Many Hardware troubles. Won't buy Gateway again.

I've had this computer since 2 months now and a lot of troubles : first, the video card was inop straight from the shop so I had to return the unit a first time (They replaced the card but didn't load the right driver so I had to fix it myself). A few weeks after this repair the computer was shutting down by itself several times a day (It was operating fine, then you heard the fan run fast for a few seconds then the screen would turn black) And now, when you press the power button, the only thing that happens is 5 beeps meaning, according to tech support, that the CPU is out of order. So, I will have to send it back to the shop again. (I am now wondering what will burn next...) The only positive thing about that is the tech support : I was always able to get someone quick and the techs were always able to answer my questions (this is not the case of all tech supports) Maybe I'm not lucky and bought one bad unit out of many good ones but I probably won't buy this brand again.

Great computer-lousy support

We purchased a Gateway computer from Office Depot about six months ago. Something happened in the meantime to make Windows unstable, so we had to use the restore partition. Problem one-restore partition defective, we need the restore disk. Couldn't find it. So we call 1-800-GATEWAY. We are told, get this, that only if you buy direct from the Gateway website can you call 1-800-GATEWAY. If you purchased it anywhere else you have to call a toll number. WTF!?!?!?!? So we call the toll number. After making us go through the restore routine again and wasting our time, we are told we have to spend $20.00 to get a new restore disk. Again, WTF!? It costs them $20.00 to burn that disk? NOT! Do NOT buy a Gateway. They do NOT support their equipment.

Solid home computer

This is a nice solid machine. Good, not great, speed, nice sized hard drive and decent memory. The graphics card stinks, but is adequate for the basics. Obviously that can be upgraded, but I suspect most people buying this machine aren't into heavy gaming on their PC. The 6 USB ports are nice (with two in the front - thank you!) and having the extra bay for another DVD or whatever is a plus.
This machine isn't going to win any awards - but, for the price, it's a great machine for a student or an average home user. My only complaint is that it sounds like a jet engine when it initially starts - but after a minute or so - it is quiet.