Help a retarded user

computer_67 · 11-01-2003, 08:35 PM

Hi, I am a relatively new Linux user who is attempting to install Mandrake Linux on a computer. I downloaded the entire i586 folder from an FTP site, and am trying to burn it to a disc. However, I noticed that the folder is over a gigabyte in size, which will not fit on a single disc. I need to know what each Mandrake Linux CD contains so I can burn them correctly for installation (as in, the exact directory structure of each disc, and what each disc is--installation, etc.). Thanks in advance!

Tuvok · 11-01-2003, 08:49 PM

computer_67,

You didn't have to download the Mandrake folder; you have to download iso images. Iso images generally come in the size of 650mb, which you burn it into cds using a software like Nero. Downloading a folder is generally reserved for those who don't have a cdrom; they install from the HD using floppies. Do yourself a favor and get the Mandrake iso images from: LinuxISO or Distrowatch

Good luck.

computer_67 · 11-01-2003, 09:18 PM

Thanks for the help, Tuvok. I guess I could use the folder I spent a while downloading, but my hard drive configuration might complicate matters, so I'll download the ISOs. One minor question: I copy ONLY the ISO file onto the disc, and not extract the contents and copy those onto the disc, right (it looks like WinRAR can extract the file)? Thanks.

Fascistchicken · 11-01-2003, 09:22 PM

you shouldn't extract them, just burn them like the are, just be sure whatever burning software you use writes the image of the iso to the disk and not the file itself

randon · 11-01-2003, 09:26 PM

You burn the ISO's using your favorite burning program, (mine is nero) and use the "burn image" option under file. That worked for me great, burning all three without a hitch.
Hope this helps

Tuvok · 11-01-2003, 09:29 PM

computer_67,

Yes, you burn the iso file onto the disc (each iso for 1 disc); you don't extract it. If you're using Nero, click "File" in menu, then click "Burn an iso image" or "Burn an iso file." Then you will be required to point to the location of the iso image. As for the folder you have downloaded, forget about it, it's complicated; it requires that you download 2-3 floppy images, burn (using rawrite) it onto floppies, reboot, point to where the folder is located in HD and finally begin installation.

Good luck.

computer_67 · 11-02-2003, 05:04 PM

Thanks for the help, everyone. I am posting this from a system running Mandrake Linux thanks to your help. Now to tweak...