So, I had no problems installing Hardy Heron on my laptop, but I've had nothing but issues with my desktop. I've had these same issues when trying any ubuntu as a matter of fact.

I was able to run Wubi, but only after choosing the noapic option. I've uninstalled Wubi and am trying to either run the installation or ubuntu straight from the cd-rom. I have to run the noapic option as I get an error otherwise. When I do, I am brought to a screen that says:

BusyBox v1.1.3 (Debian 1:1.1.3-5ubuntu12) Built-in shell (ash)
Enter 'help' for a list of built-in commands.

(initramfs)