can you do this relatively easily?
I have "inherited" a color classic and it did not come with a keyboard and mouse. I am tracking down a couple of them to use, but in the mean time, I want to turn it on by using the power switch in the rear instead of the triangle key on the keyboard. Is there an easy way to do this that won't require much fiddling around inside the case?
I got it to start up. I just wanted to see if it would actually start since it is 13 years old 
Apparently it has After Dark on it
afterdark rules~! i wish they made somthing like it now a days......
I saw your message on the LEM Swap List this morning, and if you're interested in getting a keyboard & mouse, let me know. I have several of each gathering dust in my basement workroom, and would be happy to ship a set to you. Just pm me with the pertinent info & I'll get them out to you. (Ditto for anyone else looking for ADB input devices!)
Also, congrats on rescuing a working CC from a sad fate. That would've been a shame.
but I found someone that wants to trade a heavily upgraded Duo 230c for it!
D.
While you can short two ADB pins, and the machine will start up, there is really nothing you can do without a keyboard or mouse. You wouldn't even be able to shut down the system.
The Wikipedia page:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apple_Desktop_Bus
Shorting pins 2 and 4, momentarily, with a paperclip, should start up the machine.
dream it, think it, feel it, be it