How do I Dual Boot with Win XP and Linux?

[Silicon04]

I've got an older p3 1Ghz machine running XP at the moment, and would like to install Linux on it as well. At the moment there are 2 partitions (created by a pc tech).

The problem is I dont know where to start or even how to install Linux on the second partition. I've tried to run Knoppix after downloading the .iso, but my pc wont even boot from cd, even after I've changed the boot sequence in the bios.

I've also checked out Ranish Partition Manager, but there's no mention of compatibility with NTFS.

I would very much appreciate any expert help.

 

[liqnit]

hello
i would first try with a live linux CD
http://www.frozentech.com/content/livecd.php

after that when you install linux (i used RedHat) it install a Boot manger like LILO or GRUB where you can configure .

hope it helps

 

[Silicon04]

thanks for the reply liqnit

I had already downloaded the live cd. Would I need to format the NTFS partition to install linux in it?

 

[Silicon04]

Still cant seem to boot from CD, I tried smart boot manager but that doesnt seem to work either.

 

[liqnit]

have you tried to remove the HD connector and leave only the CD connected and then boot ?
have you checked the BIOS that the CD-rom is the first boot device?

 

[Silicon04]

If I remove the hd connector, how will I be able to install into the harddisk?

I've tried making the boot sequence:
floppy > cd > hdd
cd > floppy > hdd

but neither works, it keeps on booting XP.
I think the problems with the bios, its an older intel motherboard.

As mentioned before I've also tried Smart Boot Manager, putting it onto a floppy and then restarting, but it gives me a 'remove disk from floppy and press any key'

can anyone suggest a workaround?

 

[Basie]

If your Bios allows you to choose the CD drive as first boot device I don't think it's a problem with it. When you burned the CD did you choose ISO Image and not Data CD?

 

[Silicon04]

basie, it allows choosing the cd drive as the first boot device but doesnt actually boot from the cd drive, only the hard disk.

i burnt the cd as an iso image.

 

[Silicon04]

does anyone know if this is a problem with an intel 815E motherboard?