I have a Usb-Mass storage-type MP3 player

Forum: USB booting
Topic: I have a Usb-Mass storage-type MP3 player
started by: Humanoid29

Posted by Humanoid29 on Mar. 20 2006,23:29

Basically, I have a Mp3 player that acts as a USB mass storage device when connected to the PC. (Unlike an Ipod, for example, which needs Itunes)

Anyway, I'm pretty sure its possible to boot DSL off it, but would it be safe for my already existing data? Also, would I need to create another partition, and if so, I'd appreciate it if someone could guide me to the safest way to do that.

Thanks in advance!

Posted by doobit on Mar. 21 2006,00:26

I wouldn't do it if I were you, especially if I had a working CDROM drive. Just boot DSL with the CD and use the mp3 player to store your backup file. You won't have as much risk that way.

Posted by humpty on Mar. 21 2006,01:33

it's better to backup all your files first. then life is simpler, you just do a a usb-storage install and copy your files back.

be aware that if you use windoze, it may only see the first
partition of the drive.

Posted by doobit on Mar. 21 2006,02:29

my concern with the lttle mp3 players is that it's possible to overwrite the software that plays the mp3s

Posted by Humanoid29 on Mar. 21 2006,02:52

This is actually a hard drive based DAP, a Gmini400 from archos, so I'm gonna assume that the firmware is in some seperate flash.

Thanks for all the input guys, I'm gonna wait for a bit more before I decide what to do.

Posted by anaconda on Mar. 21 2006,08:28

Well.
I did it to my old (retired, small) mp3 player, and it stopped playing mp3:s. DSL boots and works fine with it..

well I did repartition the mp3 player, and didn't make it DOS-compatible, so that propably is the problem..

If I were you I would make a "poor mans instal"l of DSL to the mp3 player. It should be safe. no changes to the file system.. Just copying files..
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anaconda