Nintendo 3DS Error. Not working

My 3DS displays an error, at different times, such as when I try to load a cartridge, within seconds of opening any software, i.e System Settings, Hulu Plus, Nintendo Video, everything on the system, which is making it unusable. The error message that is displayed, is,

                                                                                     An error has occurred.

                                                                              Hold down the POWER Button to

                                                                              turn off the power, then turn it on

                                                                                               and try again.

Please help in any way possible.

Thanks in advance,

This message was edited, by: DatCow081. ----Fixed a typo