Unknown Problem: Can't Install Vista, possible motherboard error?

Hi,

My laptop crashed with the blue screen of death. I then attempted to run in safe mode, which failed. I then tried to recover Vista which also failed.

Next I tried to re-install Vista from fresh. The white bar loads (which I believe is the drivers loading, then a blank black screen appears and the fans stop running (which indicates the processor has stopped). I get the same problem when trying to install windows xp. I am also unable to boot knoppix or Barts PE.

I have run memtest 98 which was error free. The hard drive has been switched for a new one which didn't help and the cd drive seems to works as it at least starts the reinstall process with vista and xp and also successfully boots memtest 98 from CD.

I have also connected the laptop to an external monitor and the same sequence happens.

Is this a motherboard issue and if so how can I be sure before forking out for a new mother board. What tests can I run? What else could it be?

Your help on this matter would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks


Specs:
Advent 7201 Model No.: AL-096
Intel Celeron M
Windows Vista