If you are not familiar with the different parts that make up a motherboard, read this exhaustive webpage that explains the motherboard architecture.

Troubleshooting common motherboard problems –

• Visit common motherboard issues page to get some basic questions answered.
• Start by inspecting the motherboard to see if there are any lose components, power cords, connections, missing  jumper caps, lose memory cards, audio cards, video graphics cards etc.
• If you are still having problems, start over again by removing one component at a time. Start by removing video card, and then the audio card. This way we can isolate the problem better.
• Check the Jumper settings. Refer to your motherboard manual to get proper setting instructions. Alternatively, you can also refer to this online list. Make sure you set the jumpers correctly for the processor, bus speed etc.
• If you have played around with the BIOS settings, return it to default.
• Check the power supply to and from the SMPS and wall sockets. Power fluctuations and power surges must be isolated using an UPS.
• Check for physical damage to the motherboard surface and also check for any bent/broken pins.
• Upgrade BIOS version and install latest motherboard device drivers on a regular basis.