Help, my PowerBook G4 doesn't start...any suggestions?

Question

I'm having trouble starting my Powerbook, and I am wondering if anyone has any suggestions for starting the computer, or consolation if there is no hope.
Every time when I try to turn the computer on:
-The LED on the power cord blinks/turns green
-The computer makes the turn-on chime
-I get the "You need to restart your computer...." screen (which i've discovered is kernel panic)
-the front LED doesn't light up, blink, etc
Occasionally, but not always:
-I get the one beep when I turn on the computer, signifying no RAM detected
-The first few times I tried turning it on it didn't finish the chiming beginning sound (but now it does)
What I've tried:
-Turning on the computer in safe mode
-Zapping the PRAM
-The wait and try again method
-Looking for the hardware test CD. (It is currently among the missing, my computer is from 2003, and I have access to later versions, would they work?)
Other facts of note and possible relevance:
-My computer has been acting strange for the past few months; setting its clock back to 1969 when I turn the computer off, randomly setting the default language to Greek, etc.
-About a month ago the computer suffered a fall, causing a dent and the battery to be not removable my the usual methods. Otherwise the computer's functioning seemed the same.
Any words of advise/possible diagnoses are appreciated!
Thanks!

Answer 1

eeik:
The article What’s a kernel panic explains a bit more, the phenomenon you have been experiencing.
Kernel panics can be either software based or hardware based. Dr. Smoke's FAQ Resolving Kernel Panics has an excellent approach to dealing with your issue. Since you suspect RAM, I would pull the RAM module in the user serviceable slot and see if that makes a difference. If the RAM is not the culprit, and all it may need is reseating, since the jolt of the fall may have dislodged it from being securely seated, then you will need to look elsewhere. Next, boot from the Apple Hardware Test disk that came with your computer and run all tests in a loop by holding down Command + L during the tests. Report back on your findings.
To test software/directory issues run Repair Disk
Insert Installer disk and Restart, holding down the "C" key until grey Apple appears.
Go to Installer menu (Panther and earlier) or Utilities menu (Tiger) and launch Disk Utility.
Select your HDD (manufacturer ID) in the left panel.
Select First Aid in the Main panel.
(Check S.M.A.R.T Status of HDD at the bottom of right panel, and report if it says anything but Verified)
Click Repair Disk on the bottom right.
If DU reports disk does not need repairs quit DU and restart.
If DU reports errors Repair again and again until DU reports disk is repaired.
If DU reports errors it cannot repair you will need to use a utility like Tech Tool Pro or Disk Warrior
Please post back with what you find during these procedures.
cornelius