Power-on problems

[uropn]

Hi all
I'm a newbie so forgive my ignorance. I just pickup a used laptop that's not showing any signs of life. How can I determine if it's a power supply issue or the machine itself? I don't know if it matters, but it's missing the cd-rom module and there's no ram installed. Other than that the system is complete and in good shape. It is a Micron Transport ZX PIII 600. I would appreciate any thoughts on this problem.
Thanx guys

 

[uropn]

Hi again
Could it be the motherboard? If so, how would I know for sure?
Thanx

 

[RealBlackStuff]

You won't know until you install some ram.

 

[uropn]

Are you telling me that if there's no RAM present, the laptop won't power on at all?

 

[uropn]

Wouldn't atleast some of the lights go on (ie. the hard drive)?

 

[zephead]

seems like buying ram would be a waste of money for said laptop anyways. as realblackstuff said, you'll know nothing until you put some memory in.

 

[uropn]

I put some RAM in and still no signs of life.

 

[zephead]

get a new machine

 

[HoopaJoop]

Some laptops will not turn on if you don't have a functioning battery installed in them even if you have the power plugged into it.

However, you most likely have a bad power supply or motherboard.