Ubuntu 13.04 keeps freezing before I can install it from Live CD

[krconv]

So I am trying so set up an old computer as a web server, but I'm having some issues. I have tried installing both Linux Mint and Ubuntu on it, both seeming to have the same problem.

When I have put the live cd in for either OS it freezes after it gets to the desktop. The farthest that I have been able to get was the button for installation, but at that point, for both versions, the computer locks up. In Mint it would completely lock up and I would need to force shut down, but with Ubuntu it freezes and brings me back to the login screen.

Some other info:
Windows XP Home Edition works fine, but a little slow
It's a Sony Vaio VGC-RB40 (http://esupport.sony.com/US/p/model-home.pl?mdl=VGCRB40&LOC=3&session_id=c5ff4b4372431cc24dbe3f4b4c0beba6#/howtoTab)
No Video Card
Trying to run Ubuntu 13.04
Not currently connected to the Internet

I'm kinda desperate to get this going so if you have any possible solutions I'll try 'em. Thanks

[DJWYMAN]

how much ram do you have? the problem with live cds is that the system rest heavily on your ram. try using a usb thumb drive instead. or going for a lighter distro like xubuntu.

[krconv]

How would I install xubuntu with a USB Drive? Any recommended programs?

[DJWYMAN]

which OS are you creating it on? if windows try this : http://www.ubuntu.com/download/desktop/create-a-usb-stick-on-windows

if on ubuntu this way: http://www.ubuntu.com/download/desktop/create-a-usb-stick-on-ubuntu

[krconv]

Thank you very much

[DJWYMAN]

glad I could help let us know if that works out for you.

[krconv]

The computer doesn't notice the USB drive in the boot devices list. Is there anyway to fix that?

[DJWYMAN]

you may have to activate it as a choice in your bios options which you get to when the computer is first booting up mine is F2 but yours maybe different.

[krconv]

I can't find the USB device anywhere in BIOS, I just went through all of the settings. I know the USB does work, just tested it on another computer. Any suggestions?

[DJWYMAN]

ok I have exsausted all of my ideas some one else will have to chime in on this one. It may be that that computer is too old. My moms computer would not let me use a USB drive to boot from either. have you tried the xubuntu on a cd? maybe it wont have the same issues as regular ubuntu since it is lighter.

[krconv]

Just tried Xubuntu with the CD and it worked flawlessly. Thanks for the advice :)

[DJWYMAN]

Glad I could help. I am by no means an expert but I try to help when I can.