additionally took the time to test these things on two systems, both with Asus RVE boards, just one board with BIOS v3701 and the other board with BIOS v2101. both have the identical symptoms and behave the same way....why is that?!!!?? can't make this out and figure this out.
* also tried just connecting this device:
http://www.thrustmaster.com/en_US/products/th8a-add-shifter --> same problem on both systems, do not boot passed Windows logo
** then tried this device only:
https://www.fanatec.com/us-en/shifters/clubsport-shifter-sq-us.html --> same problem on both system, do not boot passed Windows logo
as soon as I unplug/ disconnect (except keyboard + mouse), systems both boot normal and quickly into Windows.
??? don't understand this...???