so, i figured it out.  One has to uncheck the "full time resident" AND the "lived with spouse" boxes on the filing screen. This triggers the 540NR. Per California FTB publication 1031, if one spouse is CA resident and the other is either NR or part time resident the couple files a 540NR OR file two CA returns: 540 for CA resident spouse and 540NR for CA non-resident spouse. Though ProConnect seems to be set up only for the former. 

Hope this helps others.  

I wish ProConnect had this as a "Frequently asked question" hyperlink on the appropriate screen.

Happy taxing ya'll

Samir @DTLA Taxes