So i have decided to start with backtrack as my first linux operating system. i have the live cd, it works just fine (tested with vmware) i have several options as to how to boot in, I choose my option but it just goes to a black screen unless i select boot using ram. I have 4gb memory, 500 gb hard drive, 2.5 ultimate core dual processor. Any help?

Take a look at this pdf. I had the same problem but in the end I booted into live mode and started a term and ran the following command startx.
On this guide go to page 10.
http://www.offensive-security.com/do...hd-install.pdf
Let me know if it helps.

I had the same problem with BT3, and this is a desperate work-around, but one of the many boot options worked, the rest failed. I just stuck with the one that worked and ignored the rest.

I don't recommend BackTrack for newbie Linux users. Unless you have a real reason to use all those specialized applications, I would suggest other distributions, like Fedora, Ubuntu, openSUSE, Arch, Slackware, Zenwalk , etc...

I also don't recommend VMWare, I prefer VirtualBox, but I guess that is just personal preference. Its simpler to deal with and just does the job.

In fact, using a Virtual Machine and running a Live CD to learn and experiment with GNU/Linux gives you NO EXPOSURE. You will learn this much => '.' One dot of info. Why not install it to to your HDD?! You have 500 GBs! More than enough, at least it should be, unless you are running a server. At the absolute least use a more vanilla Linux distribution and install it to the virtual hard drive... At least an install will give you access to log files, kernel errors and the like.

Now, addressing the problem, we need more specific information. You are running a VM. Other than your processor, what matters is what the VM guest has, not the host. Please post those. Next, you haven't been specific enough with what exactly is the problem. A 'black screen' is about as descriptive as 'a PC.' A PC can be any brand, and specifications, any OS, etc... Please give us your settings and configurations for the VM to diagnose potential errors there.

But first, make sure you don't have a corrupted download. Check it with an md5 checksum.

Next, it'd be nice to know what the other options are. Not all of use or even care about 'BackTrack 4'. Give some insight, please.

Another thing that made me 'mad', is a complete lack of care for your post. Its short, non-descriptive, filled with spelling and grammar errors and lacks any kind of appreciation for the fact we are here to help you. We don't expect you to be an English major (I'm definitely not), but at least show us you care. I am far from perfect (in fact, polar opposite ), but at least I try...

Lastly, if you can boot the Live CD and have had the time to test it, who cares?! It works, right?

Anyways, please try and take in all what I have said here. I know it seems like I am being a troll, or being critical, but what I said is logical. I just get kinda mad at stuff like that. Maybe I have the problem... I apologize if I offend you or anyone else. Good luck, and post back as much info as you can whip up, and things you have tried.

(P.S. what is an '2.5 Ultimate Dual-Core processor'?)