I just installed the Linux Kerner using the 1st CD. For some reason the installation didn't accept the 2nd or 3rd CDs. Now when I start linux, I get to the classic linux shell but can't get to KDE. How can I get to KDE? Is there somethng like 'startx'. I tried startx but it doesn't work.

What do you mean "it doesn't work"? What happens when you issue startx? Errors? Command not found? a blank screen with a mouse cursor? reboot? explosions?

I did a startkde and it said 'couldn't connect()' since DISPLAY wasn't set. I am not sure what to set DISPLAY to.

try XFSetup - it got X with KDE working for me, with default values for screen res and such. But just tweak that from within KDE and all should be cool.

I think the prob is with XF86Config-4. XFSetup (from console) makes a new XF86Config-4 file.

hope this helps

Dan

hooya27 at yahoo dot com

Try 'startx' and see what happens (i.e. kundors' suggestion).

You cannot just startkde, you need kdm running first. You are in run level 2 probably. Since you did not use cd 2 or 3, I would suspect that kde is on one of them, i cannot remember. You could try (as root) 'urpmi kde' and see if it asks for the cds (and if they work). Then the 'xf86conf' to get your x server configured.

I tried to login as root, but it wouldn't accept the login: root and the password. I remember setting the passwd at installation. It keeps on saying login not found.
Any clues? (Installing mandrake is surely not turning out to be a cakewalk!)

Your install was obviously messed up and incomplete. Simple solution: re-install, making careful notes of everything that happens, everything you are asked to do and type, all the options you are presented with and so on. If you are a newie, this will be very valible. When i first began with Linux, I had to re-install my Manrake 8.2 several times before i got it. Sadly, Mandrake installation is not the most intuitive. It is still rough around the edges, is quirky and sometimes decided to work just because it feels like it. From what I am seeing of 9.2, it has gotten even worse. For example I had to re fix a lot of the installation such as simple right mouse clicks from within the control panels. Ridicilous of you ask me.
I will wait untill 10 matures and goes into 10.2 before I even think of trying it.
About your other problem, were the Cds rejected, or never asked for? Maybe you got a bad set.
Yes A Linux-Mandrake install is NOT a Microsoft install. Linux has a steep learning curve and a lot of setting up to do. The queastion here is are you willing to spend some serious time with it? Would you concider the time wasted ir not?