I have had a problem where all of a sudden the fan on my e-Machine will sound like it has kicked into high gear and then it shuts itself off. I do have anti-virus software. This problem occurs at random intervals and there is no discernible pattern.

Mobiledeb, February 2006

I would recommend system restore. This can be found through Start>>All Programs>>Accessories>>System Tools>>System Restore and will allow your computer to roll back to a previous date when you think it was working.
Another thing is to remove unnecessary items from msconfig:
Start>>Run>>Type 'msconfig' and click 'ok'. On startup tab at the top right you can see what starts up each time you turn your laptop on. You can search on the internet as to what each one is and what it does. Disabling all will not affect programs but you will have to start them manually so make sure you got the anti-virus enabled.
Failing all, the last resort would be to backup all personal files and use the Emachines Recovery CD/DVD and return the laptop to its factory state.
If problems persists, its likely to be an overheating issue.

Kash, April 2006