format C: for linux
 

i've installed mdk 9.1 couple of days ago, but i think i "broke" the kernel (error here, error there) and it doesn't let me install alsa driver, and there are loads of apps i don't need (3 browsers, 4 mail apps, and so on), so i'd like to reinstall it.
do i have to "format" the partition (i'm on dual boot)? do i only have to put the 1st install cd and reboot the system?
thanx

Just start over from scratch, boot the 1st CD and choose expert mode. When you select the partitions and mount points there will be a check box to format the drives.

Expert mode will give you the choice to choose individual packages.

Check out the documentation at www.linuxmandrake.com

thanx for the advices

Some good tips on installing Mandrake 9.1 here:

http://www.mandrake.tips.4.free.fr/install.html

i found the site very helpful (now i'm sure what i have to do), but i was wandering:
if i decide to divede my current linux partition into / and /home, coul that save my data next time i reinstall linux? i mean, if i reinstall linux, does it have to create new /home dir or it can use the existing one?
that's what's /home partition supposed to be created for...:

Yes, it's a good idea to have a separate partition for /home so that you can format / separately whenever you need to, such as now when you're going to re-install Mandrake. /home does not have to be re-created each time; if it is left in place, then Linux will use it automatically after installation. By being able to retain /home without it being wiped out by formatting, you get to keep all your data.

The installation process does not involve /home at all, except for the partitioning section where you can create a /home partition and format it if one does not already exist. The installation process involves system files only, such as /etc, /bin, /sbin, /var, /log, /usr, etcetera. The system files can be replaced by a re-installation at any time, but if you've wiped your data, it's gone forever. It's always wise to make backups of your data in any case, lest you make a mistake during the install. I strongly recommend that you use reiserfs for your filesystem; it is very tolerant of faults caused by power interruptions and the like. If you use expert mode in the installation, you get to choose which filesystem type in drop-down boxes.

i've reinstalled mdk without problems (it was really fast) , but i haven't found the expert option anywhere...?!? i did choose the packages manually...

From memory, in the partitioning window, there is a 'normal/expert' mode selection button. If you select 'expert' there, you get a lot more options to select, including being able to specify reiserfs filesystem.

thanx, i'll try that next time i reinstall mdk (and i fear it'll be too soon...)

Just drop your CD in and reinstall. During most install processes you can reformat and repartition your disk during the install. You'll recognize what to hit. :) You won't even lose your other OS'es unless you reformat those partitions.

Also, RedHat Sucks. Had nothing but problems out of that.:mad: Heard of nothing but problems out of it as well.