Replace on/off switch and/or PSU. Your stated you "flicked on the switch" but negelected to state which one.

>>>last time used
which was how long ago?

Although you've tried a few possibilities there are still a lot of unknowns here. At this point it could still be anything. Maybe you could try another...

For the beeps, as beep codes vary from one mfg. to the next you'll have to contact mfg's site for exact definitions.
Beeps usually mean a critical hardware error. You might want to clean the fins,...

I get that you're trying to format a drive but beyond that I can't cypher what you're trying to say.
Try to be a little more specific with less shorthand.

fyi:
disc = cd, dvd, etc.
disk = hard drive
diskette = floppy, etc.

unless you're into a hi-tech boat anchor there's nothing you can do with a dead HD but circular file it. most the files can...

Try fdisk first THEN format.
I take it you're running setup from a I386 folder. Seems like a memory prob. w/your 4%. Either use the original disc to boot with or use a floppy running the MSDOS...

which fans?
what U stated that used to be still is.
clearing the CMOS at this point seems to be a moot issue.
off the cuff I'd guess that she got hit by a power surge/spike while the machine was...

you might check the system event log for clues. MS has a debugging prog. WnDbg. that you might find useful if there is a software driver problem. Warning tho, it and the associated symbols file is...