Total Newbie: Need to install RedHat 8 on an existing Win2k system

[pal2000]

Hi,

I am a total newbie to Linux (atleast the installation part) and need to setup Redhat v8 on my win2k system for this project (URGENTLY!!). I have PartitionMagic with me. All i know as of yet is that i need to make another primary partition on my hard disk (since i need my windows intact) and then boot from the red hat cd and then make an EXT3 file system on this new primary partition and proceed. Right?

However, my concern is my hardware. I have a PIII system with an Asus V7100 (NVidia GeForce MX) card, Creative Audigy Sound card, Motorola internal modem and a Microsoft Wireless Mouse. What should I do before i start the installation procedure? Where can I look for appropriate drivers etc to ensure smooth installation? What other problems should I guard against? Would I need any additional software for the dual boot thing? I need to ensure that my existing windows installation isnt corrupted at all. I'd really appreciate if you guys could help me out with this...

Thanks,
Puneet

[mdwatts]

Disable PnP OS in the bios, use Partition Magic to resize the ntfs (??) partition to make enough space for at least the Linux root '/' and swap partitions, set the bios to boot from cdrom, insert the installation cd, select expert (or similiar) mode type of installation so you have control over the entire install process including partitioning and away you go.

As I just posted in a similar thread a little while ago, Redhat has installation documentation available on their site. You would be advised to review before starting.

[mdwatts]

http://www.redhat.com/docs/manuals/linux/RHL-8.0-Manual/install-guide/ and they have lots more on system administration, setup etc.

BTW... The motorola modem will likely require separate drivers of which you should be able to find the link and hopefully instructions by searching the JL forums for 'motorola modem'.

[m00s3]

it might also be usefull aquiring a ps2 mouse just incase the other one gives you grief