Invalid configuration information - please run setup program inspiron 6000

I have an inspiron 6000 that will not boot past the message " Invalid configuration information - please run setup program" I have no option for F1 or f2 etc. If I do hit them when I get the splash screen with the status bar on the bottom I do see something like entering setup but it quickly goes to the invalid meesage. I pull the battery on the board and nothing changes. It has plenty of juice by the way. I pulled everything but the ram with no success. I even ordered ram to see if that will help. I even tried a USB keyboard. thanks for any ideas.