I am only running 11.5 since every time I tried 11.6 I got a lot of random lockups or weird display issues. Thinking this over again (or overthinking?) I suspect part of my problem may be that since the x1 slot is closer to the CPU it might actually be the first slot on the bus so that's why my 5830 is the active card when the board POSTs. Thinking maybe an upgrade to ASRock P45XE board that would have 2 x16 slots and more x1 slots (that are not the closest to CPU) might be in order. That's a $55 option, or about $200 to build a more modern Phenom or i3 based system. Then I could crossfire if I wanted and add another GPU if I am so inclined and can fit it in the case where it will stay cool. Could also start builidng a media PC to replace the laptop for our TV, and put the 6950 in there and mine when not watching TV.

I definitely need to try 11.7 drivers, but may also wait until I have more normal slot configuration. Still been pretty stable with my 5830 clocked under 900.