Just thought I would post my findings with building a Home ESX solution.
The initial issue was with the install. Had to do an http install as ESX could not see the cdrom. Its looks like the new chipset presents the CD-rom as a Sata CD and not an PATA.
Second issue was once installed that ESX reported the Using PIC / NOAPIC error. Also the adaptec card was having errors and crashed and corrupted the raid array. Looks like ESX does not like the PCI interface therefore causing problems with the adaptec card.
Moved all the hardware to an MSI P35 Neo which is the same chipset. All went smooth.
The config I purchased was
Intel Q6600 CPU
Intel DP35DPM however will replace with MSI P35 Neo
4 x 2Gb Kingston 800mhz
Adaptec 2610SA Sata controller
2 x Seagate Baracudda 160gig SataII disks
Coolmaster 550watt Powersupply