Help figuring out why my computer won't start

Thanks for the info on the thermal paste. I've never dealt with replacing CPU's before so I wasn't sure about that.


Anyways, I have tested all components (CPU, memory, power supply, hard disks, fans, PCI card) on another computer and everything works, so there's definitely something wrong with the mobo.

I'm getting a new power supply and mobo and I have a couple of questions:

Regarding the power supply, do you have any suggestions in particular? Do they all work just about the same, just avoid Bestec?

About the mobo, I can get the exact same model for about $60. However, I was thinking some say this mobo is not very good so I might get a better one. I've seen better models actually cheaper.
What I would like to know is would I have to get another copy of Windows XP if I replace with a different mobo?

Kimsland, I tried following your Bench Test link and I got an invalid page error on the Tech Support Team site. What'd I do wrong?

LTD1, if it's an eMachine and you got XP off your restore disk, yes, you will. Right now I've seen XP sell for anywhere from $100 to $250. It's not supported/sold after June 30, although you may be able to find it. My guess is that the price will go up after that! considering Vista. :-(

I got some good advice from Zenosincks about mobo, OS and CPU. (I also had a dire problem with wanting my apps, data, pix, utils from a PowerSpec gone bad. You can look for his post (or mine) in this forum - don't remember the title.) Be sure to match the CPU socket to the mobo!

Lil Buggers moved the thread on me.

Here it is again: BenchTesting

I actually tried bench testing as explained on the link. Took everything out of the case and tested with one component at a time outside the case.
It's seems it's only the motherboard that doesn't work for some reason.


There's a copy of Windows XP in an i386 folder in the hard drive. Will this make a difference me not having to get a new copy?
I also have the Windows XP retail disc from another computer.

I'd like to get better mobo, but if I would have to purchase Win XP again, I guess it's better to just get the exact same mobo to be able to keep this old computer going.

I've been able to use the eMachine XP to install on a different mobo as long as the chipset manufacturer (usually via) and mobo maker (usually ECS) was the same. This was true part of the time, not all of the time. If you wanted to try that, make sure you find out about the retailers return policies.

Thanks for that info, the mobo used on this PC is an Intel D845GVSR. There are many other similar intel mobo's available, which seem better and are actually less expesive. I'll try using one of those and see what happens.

Kimsland, Thanks! So much good info - if you just know where to look. :-}