Thank you for your responses. The computer is a custom homebuild model with a 550 watt power supply (recently replaced) and an off-the-shelf box. As a desperate user, I decided to try everything carefully. The problem turned out to be the wire connections to the start button. It is a momentary switch, and I assumed that if I put the wires together, that would have the same effect as pressing the switch. NOT Apparently the connection has to be very solid. I resoldered the wires to the switch and the crate works now. Thank you again for your responses.
Phil: