Hi, has anyone tried to set up a dual boot vista/linux install on a Toshiba Satellite P205-S6347? Here's the specs:

This is a .pdf file

Or here, if you don't like .pdf's

I tried to install Ubuntu 7.04 (I bought the "Ubuntu Unleashed" book w/DVD), but I couldn't get past the initial installation screen. I get the error msg:

/bin/sh: can't access tty; job control turned off
(initramfs)

I've done a lot of Googling, and searched these forums. Other people seem to get this message after Linux is installed and working. The 800+ page book I bought hasn't really cleared anything up for me, yet.

I tried installing with the text only interface, but it asked me a whole lotta questions I didn't know the answer to. The install seemed to work, but the GUI wouldn't start. I'm positive that I botched the install, because I am a complete newbie with this stuff. I get reams of text about why my it's not working, but I don't know how to copy the stuff down so I can paste it here.

I was hoping there was some way to get the GUI Installer working, to fix my screwups. (for some reason my command line doesn't have any buttons to click. )

Problem is, the GUI installer still doesn't work.


Thanks.

Why use ubuntu? Check out pclinuxos or zenwalk as they've been
more friendly and easier to troubleshoot.I've tried ubuntu several
times before and never liked the way it worked,as that's my opinion.
I've had hardware that was fully supported by linux and ubuntu just didn't
want to work on it,whereis the other distros,the hardware worked out of the box.
So take back the book,download a copy of a better distro, and save yourself money an pain.

No good reason; I don't know jack about Linux. Yet.

OK. I'll check 'em out next time I get a high-speed connection (I'm always travelling). I tried openSUSE Live last night. It's really slow because it's a live DVD, but it seemed to be working (except the screen settings weren't right, and the wi-fi didn't work).

I guess I just need to keep playing around with it until I figure it out.

Thanks.

I have had similar difficulties installing Ubuntu on my Dell laptop. 7.04 is, sort of, the bleeding edge version. It has many compatibility issues, according to Ubuntu. Ubuntu 6.06.1 installed flawlessly in the same machine. Ubuntu 6.06.1 is a current and supported version of Ubuntu, even more so that 7.04. I understand wanting to have the latest and greatest system, but it may just not be possible. I have successfully installed 7.04 on a desktop. It is very nice, but I have had quite a few problems with it. I am considering 'upgrading' to 6.06.1 on my desktop as well.