I'd be incredibly thankful if someone could help me!

original build:
evga 7800gt
evga mobo (forget model #)
2gb (2x1gb) corsair xms ram
amd x2 4400
antec truepower 2.0 550 watt

First problems:

Windows XP wouldn't boot up. It would get as far as the BIOS but it would never get to the graphical windows loading screen. The monitor would turn black, and I wouldn't even have to hold the power button to turn it off. It would simply turn off with a press. I left my pc alone for a few months until I could save up enough for parts.

Thinking it had to do with my dying 7800gt video card, I purchased a new EVGA 9800gt.After installing that, I wouldn't get ANY display at all. I tried switching monitors to no avail. Zero display! EVGA tech support said to check my power supply..

At this point I noticed my Antec power supply's fan was not RUNNING! So I went back ONLINE and ordered a brand new corsair 650w power supply (and two sticks of ram, hah). I just plugged everything into their appropriate slots.. Power turns on and things start humming....

Still no display! >_<

Now, I do have some assumptions, but I thought I'd ask you guys for help while I try to figure this out...

1) switch DVI cables. I USED the same cable with the secondary monitor.

2) Get a surge suppressor. I've been running without one for a while. Would the outlet I'm plugging it into be a factor? I am receiving power.

Again, please help! Thanks so much. This sounds like LESS of a graphics card or power supply issue. You get the display showing you it is running the bios right? That means at least the card is working if you see something on the screen at all.

Do you get an option to go to safe mode or anything? I hate to beat against the obvious have you checked your cables and connections to make sure thay are solid?

thank you for your reply!

earlier, i had no option to go to safe mode...

after i installed the 9800gt, i got zero display.

popped the 7800gt back in and still no display.. none at all.

i'll triple check all the connections, but i am positive that they are solid.

one thing i just realized: there's an LCD numerical display on my motherboard that reads "FF" .. anyone know what that means?