Older computer boot failure. Running Ubuntu. Err.Msg=mounting /dev on /root/dev failed no such file or directory
 

I am trying to salvage some files in a old computer whose disk probably failed.
My starting point is: (initramfs)_ "followed by cursor"

The Err. Msg. is:
Mounting /dev on /root/dev failed: no such file or directory
Target filesystem doesn't have requested /sbin/init
No init found. try passing init= bootarg.

***I did this and got /bin/sh: bootarg: not found

Thanks in advance for your help!
drmjh

so the initramfs still boots.
i don't know how initramfs works, maybe it uses busybox.
you'd have a usable text interface, be able to mount both internal + external drive and could start copying.

how is the drive partitioned?
it seems to have a seperate boot partition?

if you cannot mount the partition with the data, you must use a live medium & photorec/testdisk to rescue what you can.

No point trying to fix it from the rescue prompt. Get a liveCD/USB - it will have sufficient tools to at least allow you to determine what is good and what isn't. If you can mount the disk, no need for forensics, just copy the data.

Thanks for the prompt responses.
I hate to flaunt my ignorance but what is a liveCD/USB and where would I get one?
I have a disk to install MINT, would that work?
drmjh

Member response
 

Hi,
You can look here; Get Your ISO, LiveCD & Pocket OS

Hope this helps.
Have fun & enjoy!
:hattip:

Many thanks!
I'll get right on it and see if I can rummage around on the old computer.
drmjh

And yes, the Mint install disk is just fine. It should probably mount the internal hard disk for you if it's usable.