OK, I read the pinned post and that didn't help so, here goes:
I acquired a CPU from a local retailer, it was the display model and had been placed into the back room after they changed their setup. While it was in the back room, someone had removed the side panel and the RAM module. But, I figured for $20 it was worth it even if all I could salvage was the case. It came with no cords, no manual, no anything except the CPU. I brought it home and didn't really deal with it until a few weeks ago when I had the time. I installed a DDR RAM module (128 MB), plugged a cord in (got plenty of those), hooked up the keyboard, monitor and mouse, and pushed the button. The fans spun for about 3 cycles, like it was starting up and then nothing. Fans stopped and the monitor never flickered even once. I replaced the PSU and the problem remains, it is like something is internally shutting it down as soon as it is turned on. Now, being reasonably intelligent in the ways of Electronics, I would normally assume this points to a "dead short" somewhere but, my knowledge of power distribution within a PC is not as good as within an FM Radio. I would love to be able to build from the basic's of this computer as the Motherboard is not that bad (I researched the specs). I am hoping that this problem doesn't point to a bad Motherboard. Can anyone tell me where to look to find the base problem? The "Computer Repairmen" in my area are crooks, they sold my friend a rebuilt laptop for $400 that had an intermittent problem with the display and refused to repair it within the warranty period and then wanted to charge her $200 afterward.