grr.
Got all my cabling sleeved up and tidied literally just as the new processor arrived.
New CPU installed; no boot. "Memory Error" beep code. Memory is BALLISTIX/MICRON, checked part # on MB QVL before I bought. Cleared CMOS... removed cooler, checked CPU; installed flush & tight & good coverage. Still same. Stripped down to MB, RAM, & Processor... still no boot.
Gonna step back, go play with my son and get the eff away from this monster for a little bit. Will probably come back after the wee beasties are in bed and go through all the obvious troubleshooting step by step. I know it's something STUPID.
mnem
"You know it's bad when you annoy yourself..."