When I boot my laptop (Acer 5100) the fans run, the lights light, the CD drive spins... and then nothing. black screen. No splash screen, nothing. Running Vista, can't boot off of Vista or XP disk. Computer is 5 months old.

Not being able to boot from a CD/DVD is an issue - but may not be your primary issue.

Are you able to see anything when the system first starts?
Are you able to access the BIOS?
Have you plugged the laptop into an external monitor to see if it works there? (you may have to press the Fn key along with another key to switch to the external display).

I never see anything on the monitor, it stays black like I never turned it on

Then, IMO, it's likely that you've got a problem with the graphics card - that's why I suggested the external monitor. Any luck with that?
If you're able to see on the external monitor, then it's likely to be an issue with the connections to the screen. If not, then there's deeper trouble that it'll likely take a pro to sort out.

Since it's only 5 months old, it's likely to still be under warranty. Check with the place that you bought it for your warranty repair options.

No dice on the second monitor. Is there any way to make a boot disk for Vista? The CD drive is spinning.

Yes, there's an ISO available here (for 32 bit versions): http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/blogs/usas...?showentry=1261

But if the screen doesn't show anything how are you going to boot with it?

I don't know, thought it would be worth a try.

Acer tech support said this:

Try the steps below for a power reset, to eliminate a hardware problem with your notebook:

1. Disconnect the AC adapter from the laptop.

2. Remove the battery.

3. Press and hold the power button for about 30 seconds then release it. (You will not see anything happen)

4. Connect the AC Adapter to the laptop. Make sure the AC Adapter is plugged in.

5. Turn the computer on as normal.

6. Once Windows boots, insert the battery.

If the notebook still does not power on, we recommend the notebook be serviced by our authorized repair depot.

OK, tried it, that didn't work