Ok, I've tried Mandrake 9.1, 9.2, and I'm using Slackware 9.1 now. I've tried installing the ATI linux drivers on all three, and yet...they don't work. I can install and configure them fine, but when I either run KDE for 5 or so minutes, or try any GL app(I always test glxgears when I get in) it freezes or the screen goes black and sits there.
I can get acceleration through DRI, but I can't use programs like XSI without the official drivers. Any tips?