Will a dead battery make a laptop not boot when plugged in?

I feel stupid asking this, but haven't come across it before. I have heard that this is a problem with Macs, but haven't heard anything about it being a problem for PC's.

Someone contacted me saying that the laptop will not boot at all and that the battery was probably dead. They are asking me to order two new ones, which I won't do until I know that will resolve the problem (at 150 bucks a piece!). They have it plugged in with the AC adapter, but nothing. They have tried removing the battery and booting -- still no go. I haven't seen the system myself and plan on getting them to bring it to me, but I just wanted to know if having a dead battery, but having the system plugged in could still cause it to not boot.

I don't think that is the case, but wanted to get the word from others...

thanks