Laptop won't power on. Any ideas?

[pc_builder]

Has anyone had this problem before?
Someone wants me to fix her laptop computer.
I don't know the specs, just got it.

It's a Compaq Presario 1200.
It won't power on. When plugged into external power, the power indicator light is on, but it won't power on. Pushing the power button does nothing. No whirring, no beeping, not even a whimper.

I just wanted to know if anyone had any ideas before I crack this baby open and take a look inside.
Thanks

[Kozakowski]

Crack that baby open and look inside!

[Ponch]

Maybe the battery is not properly seated, remove and put it back in... sorry for basic answer.

[pc_builder]

Thanks guys. Yeah, I tried removing the battery. Even tried external power with no battery in.

I guess I'll just have to open it up.

[BartY]

Probably the system board, or maybe this little part called the DC-DC converter. Laptops don't have very many seperate parts, usually everything is on 2-3 large assemblies.

If the system board is gone (which is probably is) it is probably beyond economical repair, unless you just luck out and find someone that just happens to have the part. Usually most system boards for laptops run anywhere between $150-500 depending on the make/model of the laptop.

Bart