[Cialug] debian605+gdm3

[Dan Hockey]

I just installed Debian 6.0.5 32bit DVD on an old dell-everything seems to go fine 'til it gets togdm3 is the last I see flash on the screen before the computer locks up. the only way out is to use the reset button.I can boot into maint mode but top nor ps -aux show anything for gdm3. <- I assuming gnome?gnome is what I wanted not unity.I can get into nano if need to edit something.what do I do next?  
-dan