Originally Posted by
xann27
try this, call and ask for the components department. then make sure you speak with the PC components supervior, or department manager. this part is crucial. explain to them your situation, how you have to drive across the country or whatever, and do your best to make a friend out of them in the first couple of minutes. explain to them you are building a computer and its critical that you know the batch of the processor for testing purposes. (also telling them you have a following of people that like to take your advice from forums) once you have that person's name, make sure when you get there, you'll be able to meet them face to face. make your drive and tell them you'll only use up 5 mins of their time and have them escort you to the components "cage" from there, its a brothel line! hand pick your beauty.
i know all this because i used to work at 4 different fry's stores along the west coast. it'll be even better if you can get ahold of the customer service supervisor.
i hope you get the right processor. ive been told that the same batch i have, 3001a187 are some of the better ones found so far. but dont take my word for it. i have only used/seen my own i7 930.
good luck and let us know!