Had problems with os (openSUSE 11.0) getting completely scrambled. Ran firmwear test and thought that was the problem,but: replaced CPU and that not problem; replaced the BIOS chip and that not the problem; tested hard disk and contents on other laptop and is OK, so that not the problem; tried complete new install, but whether "repair system" or any other option, all comes to halt when get message that "cannot find hard disk". Have already taken it apart twice to check all connections, but everything seems fine, before doing it again and trying some more questionable "fixes" of connections, would appreciate if someone might have some other idea of why my fully connected hard drive is not being recognized by the install disc (it works on other laptops).
Any thoughts appreciated.
Thanks for your various suggestions:
BIOS gives no indication it sees the disk.
Motherboard has only the one IDE controller; motherboard manufacturer (of ITRONIX IX260+ GoBook 3) makes nothing available on web (despite being a legacy product -- not even disassembly data) and won't even make BIOS updates available if no longer under contract; also, I lost internet function when problems first started, and now total non-function of boot loader, and can't reinstall or repair -- nothing works.
Linux (openSUSE) did recognize the controller for hard drive prior to my attempt to make a direct internet install as test (obviously, a total wipe out).
After first put in new CPU and reassembled, all worked as did before (including scrambled functions and no Network Manager), but then kept getting worse and worse, until present impass; but will give a new look to a single small insulating pad which fell out and didn't seem to effect anything; but doubt that the answer.

Well I took it apart even more completely, and after much examination of various symbols on parts was able to find an uncoupled connection (that had no connection elements visible, but just a printed set of silver lines under thin plastic) that finally did the trick and recognized my hard drive. Would not recommend purchase of laptop that doesn't have service/repair manual readily available--was a real nightmare. Much thanks for all your suggestions; they kept me re-trying until succeeded.

The quick test is to power on and get into the BIOS setup. Does the BIOS see the disk? If yes then the problem has something to do with the Linux installation software. If the BIOS does not see the disk then continue looking at hardware for the solution.

If your motherboard has second IDE or SATA controller try to connect your hard drive to it.Make sure the BIOS settings for IDE or SATA controllers are switched on (check the motherboard manual) and then check the cables are correctly installed.Maybe you need to check out your motherboard on your motherboard manufacturer's website and see if there are any issues with larger drives if you have a large drive or you could purchase an IDE or SATA drive card and install the drive on it instead.
Your motherboard needs to "see" the hard drive,that's the problem usually,because I doubt that this a SUSE failure,so go to your board website and download the latest version of the BIOS to suit the BIOS on the board that was originally there.

More likely Linux does not recognize the Controller for the hard drive that was used in that laptop..
What is the make and model of the laptop ?

Have you searched for the model of laptop and Linux ?
i.e. - Sony VGN-A170P Linux


Some laptop hardware is very Linux unfriendly..