MB test

I'm trying to test an atx motherboard, but I have no case for it.
I have cpu, ram, video, keyboard and power supply hooked up to it.
How do I get it to turn on?

 

Use a scr_ewdriver to short (connect) the two pins which should be used for the power switch cable. Note- this is a momemtary contact, so you just touch them and then release the scr_ew driver. To turn it off, repeat the process.

 

The fans are all that I can get to turn on, the video does not. (and no beeping)
I've tried the onboard video, also a known to work PCI & AGP video cards.
I've also tried different ram, but I dont have another cpu to try.

Am I right in thinking that I've narrowed it down to either a bad cpu or bad motherboard?

 

Not necessarily - disconnect the ATX power connector from the MoBo, clear CMOS -(jumpers from 1&2 to 2&3 for about 5-10 seconds then back to 1&2), reconnect power connector and see if you can boot into BIOS. If yes, set for default for the time being - then come back later and set it up in more detail. Suggest you check memory and video as most common problems re: can't boot.

 

Another thought - some MoBo's require CPU fan (3 pin) on a specific header or no boot is possible.