This is the 5th system I have built, but my 1st 64 chip, and I am not sure if that is part of the issue. All components seem okay, bios are updated. When I try to install the OS (Windows XP, 2000 - tried both) the system will start the install, but when it restarts after the partition reformat, it freezes on the "boot from cd screen" or if it gets past that, it freezes with just a blinking underscore on the screen. Any help would be greatly appreciated, as I am stumped.

Here are my specs

Abit UL8 mobo
AMD San Diego 3700+
Corsair XMS 1GB (2x512)
ATI AIW 9600XT AGP8 (yeah, I know not the best choice)
NEC DVDRW
Samsung 160 GB IDE HD (do I need SATA?)
Raidmax 450W PS