Hi - I know a bit about linux, nothing at all about ubuntu but want to try it.

I have 2 installations of XP, Partition Magic and Boot Magic. I'm learning, so want to keep the above meantime.

So I began to install ubuntu from a cover CD which came with Linux Format (great mag, by the way, and no, I don't have a share). All went well until it asked persmission to go ahead and install - and I realised it hadn't asked me where to put grub. I wanted it on /dev/hda9.

At that point I aborted, since I had had the same problem installing SuSE (but that was just because I hadn't noticed the question), and I didn't want to risk trashing Windows again - yes, it's backed up, but restore is such a pain! - and I went through the whole thing again, but found no way to tell grub where to go (!)

If I just carry on, presumably it will install grub in the mbr where I don't want it, and may not pick up both versions of XP, let alone SUsE. And before you ask, I had a disaster with SUsE too, trying to upgrade, so currently it doesn't work. I'll sort that another time.

So: how to tell the installation where to put grub?

Thanks in advance.

I'm not 100% sure, but it should pick up your XP's and Suse if it's installed in the MBR.

I have installed Ubuntu a few times, and every time, it has found my FC6, and winxp installs.
For some reason, the Ubuntu Grub also seems to pick up my non-windows disk (read: FAT32 storage) as a windows disk and puts an entry in the list for it. Odd, considering there is nothing bootable on it!

Thanks to both who replied. Yes, I think it probably would pick up the others; like you I'm not 100% sure.

However, the point is: I don't want grub in the mbr. I want to use BootMagic in the meantime to pick up grub, so I want grub on /dev/hda9. Other distros can do this; why not ubuntu?

OK, maybe I'm just being awkward. But as I said, I'm just learning linux; I am not familiar with grub. I have to use XP just now, and better the devil I know .... (besides, I paid money for BM :-( )

BootMagic.
Correct me if I am wrong here, but isnt that a boot loader in its own right?

If it is, just point bootmagic to the Ubuntu distro.

During the Ubuntu install, I think it asks if you want to install the bootloader, does it not?
If it doesnt, just install the damn thing, and point BM at Ubuntu. If it does ask you, select to not install it, then, once the system is installed, reboot with the live disc (this is important) and find your ubuntu install. Take note of where the initrd and kernel images lie and then point BM at these - just as you would add an entry to Grub itself.

Thank you again, DJNolz83.

Yes, you are right: BM is a bootloader.

I'm not quite sure what you mean by 'just point bootmagic to the Ubuntu distro', because ubuntu is not yet installed - of course I could point it at the empty partition, but I don't think that is what you meant - forgive me if I'm wrong, but I'm a linux newbie and possibly confused.

> During the Ubuntu install, I think it asks if you want to install the bootloader, does it not?

This is the crux: I don't think it does. However, it is some time since I tried it and got discouraged, and perhaps I didn't understand it fully. I will try again, and let you know how I get on. I am really grateful for the help.

It is my understanding that BM installs itself in the mbr; so if ubuntu doesn't ask and goes ahead and does it, grub will install in the mbr and trash BM. That's what happened with SuSE anyway. However, it's time to bite the bullet, I guess. I will go over the installation with a fine-tooth comb and see if I can find the appropriate question.

I won't be able to do this for a while, as I have visitors coming and must direct my energies to clearing up the midden that is my house, but I will get back to you (both).

Many thanks again.