New build got stuck trying to partition the WD7501AALS HD. I will use the new box as PVR mythtv.

so what is your problem ?
we are not mind readers so.......................

i have an MSI B85 41 pc mate mobo and am booting from CD but the install fails because sys fails to identify my WD7501AALS HD. The board recognizes a device connected to SATA port 2 but indicates it has 0 GB. The drive was purchased a couple of years ago and never used till I tried to format it in my vista box but it failed to complete the format. i suspect failed HD but was wondering if i could do anything to help ubuntu identify the HD? I am familiar with unix and am really impressed with its simplisity and after vista, well. Good to know you all the loyal linux pro's are still out there and are willing to help. Great just knowig your there and willing to assist and work for gratitude, i salute you.

What did you use to get that information? Boot the Ubuntu medium and use GParted to see if shows up.

so you "tried" to format it using the "Edsel" of OS's "vista"

download and burn Gparted Live CD
http://gparted.sourceforge.net/

vista can not burn a image unless you bought 3d party software like "NERO"( 3o day free trial came with it)

i like to use , on MS Windows, CdBurnerXP
https://cdburnerxp.se/en/home

burn the gparted image and reformat the drive to the linux formal ext4

then install the operating system

but

that install dvd should be able to reformat the drive as part of the install