Total N00b on linux and going nuts
 

I just have started getting into Linux and, even though I am going nuts, I am actually enjoying myself...... However, I am having trouble.
I am trying to install Mandrake 8.2 PPC onto my computer, and I am having trouble with the video driver/kernel.
I have been looking everywhere I could think of, but I haven't found anything that would help an utter noob like myself out.

Here is a general breakdown of what I am running with.
processor= PowerPC G4 533MHz (NewWorld)
video= GeForce2 MX
ram= 384MB PC133
HD= 40.95GB Maxtor 3.2.8

I don't know how much of this will help, but I put in what I could.

I installed everything with the install-text command because I can't use any of the video options listed. When I finished the install, I couldn't go into the graphics interface mode, or if I did, the screen went blank. I barely can read what comes up after 'Boot:' but I think it says loading elf32 kernel. When I crosschecked the various sites with my videodriver, they all said I needed the 2.4.18-6mdk kernel..... I looked in the /lib/modules file, and found 2.4.18-6.1mdk, which I am guessing is the right one.
My problem, now, is that I have no idea how get yaboot to use this, if it is what I need, and what to do with it.
If anyone here can help, I would greatly appreciate it. Also any recommendations on learning the language, or anything else about Linux,... whether site, or book, would be greatly appreciated.

I have had similar problems with RH 7,, try this:
run Xconfugurator, use 8 bit display modes, you neglected to mention what resolution you are attempting to run or what display mode your using. if you are attempting to run for example: 32 bit display with 1600x1200 res,, you may try going down to 16, or then 8 bit. or you could try stepping down to lower res if you need 32, or 16 bit display.
good luck,, Im a Noobie too

Jay4hand is right on the money. Run Xconfigurator from the command line and start with the lowest possible video resolution then work your way up to what you think should be the correct combination. Otherwise, you're stuck with trying to manually adjust the XF86config-4 file -- not so much fun!!

Keep at it, Gaitari, it may be frustrating at times, but you will learn a lot about your new OS and about your own hardware. It's been a great trip so far :D !!

Thank you for posting replys to my question. I have been given the same answer to this question by several people, including the ones listed above. I greatly appreciate your answers, and I know they must be right. However, I am still lost. I tried typing in xconfigurator from the root directory, as well as Xconfigurator, and still got no response. said there was no such file. I am still at a loss, and am beginning to feel like a total idiot. I will try to give more info this time, and hope you don't ignore me due to this post. This is actually my first time, ever, dealing with a linux format of any type. Thank you for your patience, and if you advise a reinstall, I will try that. I will just need to find out what settings to use on install-video, or do a install-text.
Here is the rest of it.


Monitor = Viewsonic A90 (19in. w/ 18in viewing area)
Resolution= Max1600 x 1200 at 69Hz
1280 x 1024 @80Hx
1024 x 768 @106Hz
800 x 600 @ 133HZ
Input signal RGB analog (75 ohms, 0.714 Vp-p)
Sync H/V separated (TTL), composite, sync-on-green
Frequency f h: 30~86kHz; f v: 50~180Hz

Thank you all... I have already recommended this site to several people, because of your helpful Posts, and have been told that this is one of the best sites on the web for N00bs. Now I see why.



< Trying to keep from pulling my hair out...... It took me too long to grow it. ;-) >

Under Mandrake it's xf86config not Xconfigurator.

Orrrr use XFdrake and be sure to be root
And if it shows you a screen of tiled
penguins press no if you want more
options as autodetect sometimes flaw's
It tried to fry my monitor onetime at 160Hz
vert freq :( so i choose a monitor with
a vert range far within the spec's giving me
85 Hz at the moment)