Computer won't boot from CD-ROM...Forum: User Feedback Topic: Computer won't boot from CD-ROM... started by: Jason Posted by Jason on Jan. 10 2005,04:35
I have an older computer I got from someone for free that won't boot from the CD-ROM drive in BIOS.Downloaded both a boot disk for DOS 6.22 (which the system has) and the latest DSL boot disk. DOS boot disk loads up just fine, recognizes the CD-ROM, and everything is peachy. DSL boot disk gets to the point where it would start reading stuff off the CD, crashes, and the only response I get from the computer is the caps lock and scroll lock lights on the keyboard are blinking. Everything else is locked up, and I have to turn the computer off in order to do anything else. Tried the DSL boot disk in my main computer, and everything loaded up just fine. BTW, my main computer has been able to run every version of DSL I've tried going back to 0.4.8. I already did a search for using the boot disk on the forum and I didn't see anything about this particular type case. I've asked about using boot disks on other websites (namely, Freedomlist, which I help moderate), and the only real reply I received was someone's commentary on how they didn't like boot disks. Only other possibilities I can think of: 1. Updating the BIOS - I've already been to the motherboard manufacturer's website and located an updated BIOS. 2. The computer in question needs more physical memory to run DSL, since it only has 8 MB RAM. Other specs: Processor is a P1 120 MHz. Mitsumi CD-ROM drive. Thanks in advance to anyone that can help. Posted by tronik on Jan. 10 2005,04:47
for i386 DSL you need at least 16 megs of ram to boot. This does not provide X windows functionality, only console (at boot run 'dsl 2' for console only). 24 megs is the recommended MINIMUM for X windows. Of course, the more ram the better, since thats where you're working, in ram.
Posted by AwPhuch on Jan. 10 2005,06:02
I agree, processor power believe it or not isnt as critical with linux as RAM is...a 90Mhz system with 256Megs RAM wil run lightspeeds faster than say a 350 with only 32Megs RAM I would recommend upgrading to a minimum of 32Mhz for the proper DSL experience..anything less and you wil be dissapointed Brian AwPhuch |