I cannot stress enough the convenience of stopping X before installing the ATI drivers. Here are the steps I use (since my entries above, I've replicated this process on my wife's computer and had no further problems):
1. Write down these instructions, bring them up on a second computer, or print them out We're about to stop your X.org server, so you won't be able to come back and refer to these directions without a hardcopy.
2. Switch to your local console by pressing Ctrl+Alt+F1 and login with your normal username and password.
3. STOP X.ORG:
Code:
sudo /etc/init.d/gdm stop
4. Ensure that the fglrx driver (if present) isn't loaded, or it will NOT be correctly installed:
Code:
sudo modprobe -r fglrx
5. Reinstall the restricted modules for your kernel and the accelerated X.org server via apt-get:
Code:
sudo apt-get install --reinstall linux-restricted-modules-2.6.10-5-<your architecture here> xorg-driver-fglrx
6. Edit your xorg.conf file using the guidelines above in this thread.
7. Test your X.org configuration:
a. Start X.org:
b. Open a Terminal once X.org/GNOME starts.
c. Type 'fglrxinfo'. Your ATI video card should be displayed.
If this has worked, feel free to go to System -> Log Out to go back to the console. You can retart GDM without rebooting by typing this:
Code:
sudo /etc/init.d/gdm start && logout
You should now have full acceleration! If it didn't work, post here and we'll help you as best we can.
Hope this helps!