Why will my computer not start?

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I had just finished installing and updating Mint 10 (in place of Debian), and all was well until the next time I tried to start that computer. The power came on, but the BIOS got "stuck" and nothing would initialize. I ultimately decided something much have happened to the motherboard, so I replaced the motherboard ... and now I only get a brief "flash" of power when I press the power button and then everything goes completely dead.

Any ideas? I have checked all connections and I have tried disconnecting various things to look for some kind of short or whatever, but nothing changes. Switching the power supply off and back on seems to "reset" the PS, but then it again immediately drops out right after I have pressed the machine's power button.

Stumped.

Did you try measuring the power channels with a multimeter, it could be that the power feed damaged?

That would be beyond my experience, but I might try a power supply from a different computer the next time I come across one that is no longer being used.

it could very well be the power supply, do you use a grounded cable to connect your com to the grid_

Oh yes, I always be sure of having grounded connections.

Sounds like a power supply issue. A power supply tester is a good thing to have. Mine is older, ATX style from what I can remember. I've done the replace the motherboard adventure to only then determine that the power supply was the culprit.

Other considerations, if the processor is not seated well then the system won't boot up. And, if the video card is not seated well then you'll get a black screen but have power. On older systems, sometimes you have to re-seat cards cuz the connections are worn out. good luck