Bob, well I can post some links i was reading on the subject... to explain further about the resistor business. But it really doesn't matter... since it was just the means by which I thought to try using the OLD zener diode. The point was the new ones were measuring very very differently. although it disturbs me since i used the precise part Jed recommended and where possible, all new parts. But i got past my hump starting the processor. So that's the important thing.
