Install problems - stops at command prompt

[chris678]

Hi,
I've decided to change my OS from Win XP to Ubuntu 8.04 64 bit.

My computer is a new spec (Gigabyte GA-G31M-S2L motherboard, Core 2 Duo E7400, Geforce 8400GS PCI-E graphics card, 4GB DDR2 RAM, 160 GB SATA hard drive, IDE DVD Rom) and been running Win XP 64 bit for a few months no problem.

I'm new to Ubuntu and Linux.

When I boot the Ubuntu CD....
I select the Language,
Select 'Install Ubuntu',
'Loading Linux Kernal' goes from 0 to 100%,
I get the ubuntu logo and the orange bar moving left and right for approx. 2 minutes,
I then get the orange bar extending from left to right,
I then get about 6 lines of text which is too quick to read all but contains something like 'warning could not open display' & 'GDK screen failed'
I then get a new page starting with 'Loading, please wait', some text about 'No warranty...' and the help URL. I'm left at a comment prompt i.e. ubuntu@ubuntu:~$
And nothing happens from there on.

I also downloaded the 32 bit version with the same result, so I assume it's my computer and not the software.

Any help or advise would be very appreciated.

[merlinus]

It may well be a video card problem. You might try the alternate text-based install cd, and when up-and-running easily get the correct drivers for your card.

[hal8000]

You may need to try the alternate text installer:

http://www.ubuntu.com/getubuntu/downloadmirrors#alternate


Did the CD work ok in live mode BTW?

[chris678]

I'll take the PCI-E card out and try it with the on-board VGA. See if that helps.

Thanks for the quick response.

Sorry, what's live mode ?

[chris678]

Thanks guys,

Downloaded the alternate text installer and it worked fine.