So I built this computer for my brother. The total cost was a little over $300. I posted about it a couple weeks ago here:
http://www.tfproject.org/tfp/showthr...ghlight=%24300
Here are the specs:
Motherboard w/ CPU $74.00
Syntax SV266AD 5xPCI 1xAGP(4x) 2xUSB ATX 266FSB -with cpu - ATHLON XP 2200+,1.8GHZ w/ Heatsink Fan
Memory $50.88
512 MB PC2700 Micron
Hard Drive $67.49
Seagate 80 GB IDE
CD-RW $34.98
Lite-On 52x24x52 IDE
Floppy $12.98
Sony 1.44 internal
Video Card $69.00
PowerColors ATI Radeon 9600SE
Case and Power Supply $17.00
400 W Power Supply and Metal Case
Total $326.33
I had to buy the Syntax mobo instead of the PC Chips one due to stock issues at the place I bought it from, whatever, no problem.
Anyways, I put this thing together. The processor was already installed. I had to install the heat sink/fan myself. So I put some thermal paste on the core and put on the fan. Everything else installed fine. When I go to power the system up, there is no POST, no beeps, no lights but seemingly everything has power...the fan, the CD-ROM drive, keyboard, mouse. I then reseated everything and tried again, no luck. Then I disconnected all floppy, IDE, and USB connectors to the motherboard. Tried powering up, no luck. The case is a cheap one, and was missing a screw or two, so the motherboard is not screwed in at two points. Therefore, is the motherboard not grounded well because of this? I didn't wear an ESD strap during this, but I was sure to ground myself at regular intervals.
What do you think? Is the mobo bad? Is the processor core cracked? Any ideas on a plan of action. I am going to try the RAM on another computer to see if that may be the problem for starters.