Even if you've never worked with Linux or Ubuntu, you can do this as I did. You only need to be somewhat computer literate to figure it out. After reading all the problems/dangers of trying to do it through Windows, I decided I would do it in Ubuntu. Here's the process:
1.Download and unzip the ace hack kit, read the Effen manual. You'll find it in the unzipped folder.
2. Go to
Download | Ubuntu
3. Download it and then follow the directions to burn your CD (actually you'll need a blank DVD)
4. Reboot and when prompted, choose "try Ubuntu"
5. Make sure your sd card is formatted and turn fastboot off
6. Connect your phone to the pc. Make sure to use a USB port on the motherboard, not one on the front. You should have USB debugging ON and charge only
7. Open the terminal (ctrl+alt+t)
8. enter the following- wget
http://droid.neolobster.com/roms/aahk-********.zip && unzip aahk-********.zip && sudo ./hack-ace.sh
replace asterisks in both locations with current build of the ace hack kit, currently 12122011
9. choose option 1 when prompted
10. enter the passkey found in the Effen manual when prompted
11. In less than 10 minutes your phone will be back up and running
You'll hardly be able to tell you're rooted at first, since this method maintains the stock ROM, but you are! Now go try out some different ROMs and remember, ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS!
Also, a big thanks to attn1 for the great work on the hack kit!