Thanks, CelGen.

Well, I've narrowed the alternate board down to two possibilities, first here it is . . .



. . . and the possibilities, this . . . A7V8X-LA (Kelut)

. . . and this . . . A7V8X-LA (Kamet 2)

. . . and here's one on eBay, sans proc: COMPAQ HP PAVILION A7V8X-LA 5187-4913 MOTHERBOARD + I/O Shield

It's not a big surprise that the "Pavilion Drive" worked on this one at all! :lol:

I found another drive in the alternate case for the re-installation, here's hoping it's the functioning, password free Win95 drive! :approve:

It looks like '98 is out for this one, but XP is doable, if a stretch.

Install an operating systemThe A7V8X-X motherboard supports Windows ME/NT/2000/XP operating systems

Click to expand...

I sure hope this is the right Manual: http://dlcdnet.asus.com/pub/ASUS/mb/socka/kt400/a7v8x-x/e1198_a7v8x-x.pdf

It sounds to me like this board is pretty much the dim-witted, evil X86 cousin of my dearly departed QS'02.

http://www.overclockersclub.com/reviews/asusa7v8x/

How well can XP run on a machine of this vintage?