Question : Problem: How do I bypass the I/O switch in Dell 5150

My Dell Dimension 5150 wont start.  I have looked through many forums and found this to be a common problem, stemming from either the motherboard, power supply or front panel I/O switch.  I have determined the power supply is okay and now am trying to test the front panel with the power switch, but I can't find any way of testing it.  I have absolutely no money, so buying a new one and trying it is not an option. So, if any one knows, please let me know.  thanks.

Answer : Problem: How do I bypass the I/O switch in Dell 5150

This seems to be how Dell use their proprietary connector:
http://www.lnmdesign.com/400sc/front_pnl.html
- see the FNT_PNL section.

and here's the motherboard manual:
http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/dim5150/en/om/WD846A02.pdf
but it's a bit rubbish and non-techie

So, I'd say it's pin 19 and 20 - the pins on opposite sides of the connector, just towards the centre of the bank of pins, adjacent to the missing pin.  Do you feel lucky?

If the PC has a **reset** button, then with some wire and some jiggerypokery, you can reroute the power switch to this, and use it instead.  

hth, Danny