problem starting mandrake (probably related to XF86Config-4)
 

When I log into Mandrake (10 Community) I went into a command line thing. I typed "startx" and it ran XFree86. The output is as follows:

(EE)RADEON(0): no valid modes found
(EE)Screen(s) found, but none have a usable configuration

Fatal server error:
no screens found

I then proceed to edit XF86Config-4 using the "vi" function. I dont know what to edit but there's a problem on writing the file. When I type ":w" I get a message "XF86Config-4 is read-only (add ! to override)". Then I type ":w!" it says "cant open file for writing"

Now I have knoppix, I tried to access to the file graphically and hence I can copy the XF86Config-4 from knoppix to Mandrake, however Im getting some read-only error that I cannot save the file for Mandrake.

Please help

you must be root. Once you login, use the command
su
you'll be asked for the root password. Then try
XFdrake
this is the mandrake setup program. Try various settings until you find something that works (there has to be one since you were able to run the installer).

I've had the same problem with installing slack....I have found (and correct me if I'm wrong) you can't really setup your Radeon drivers until you get into the GUI and download the latest drivers from the ati website.

Solution!......try choosing a Generic VESA driver as ur video card until you can install the latest catylist for linux

and I believe that screens error is refuring to ur Monitor...you gotta setup the correct parameters for YOU'RE monitor ie. resolution, refresh rate etc...

----------------
Quiber

so how do i choose VESA as my video card? I edit the XF86Config-4 and put "VESA" as "video driver"?

that might do it. The vesa driver should also show up in XFdrake. it'll do the necessary editing for you.

XFdrake and vesa did the work
Thanks!

now my problem comes to internet connection, will start a new topic for that. Sorry about my newbieness:newbie: