Issues installing (any) linux on amd e450 board

[Squawkgoestux]

Hi all.
Linux newb warning....

I have built a 'media' pc using an asus/amd board with the integrated amd cpu. --> http://www.asus.com/Motherboard/E45M1M_PRO/
This is a UEFI board (yes, sorry) that i've installed with 8 gig ram, dvd sata, 1Tb hdd sata.

This is giving me grief. lots of it.
I have read what i can find here and at 'rods books'.

I've tried installing ;
windows 7 64 (works fine)
windows xp 32 (works fine bar memory size limit)
win xp 32 with mint 64 14.10 as dual boot
mint 64 14.10
ubuntu 64 12.10
using gpart to create a msdos mbr.

All end up with the exact same problem, the linux install gets to the end, but when its spossed to say, 'reboot to finish install', it doesn't, it just stops.
A hard reboot leaves me with a blinking empty line.
As a dual boot, i get the boot manager, select linux, it starts loading, but then stops and gives an error of 'unable to find install file location' (or something along those lines, sorry, was upset and didnt make note of it).

both versions will boot and run as a live cd.
I can't see any options in the uefi for legacy bios.
I have NOT tried 'rods' uefi work arounds (makes my head hurt trying to understand the proceedure).

So, is it possible to get linux as a sole o/s on this board ?
What am i missing ?
Or is my only hope to sit down, read 'rods' pages, and try to battle the monster ?

Many thanks.
Nig.