Re: Debian PPC

[Kent West <westk@acu.edu>]

John A. English, n/OEF wrote:

> Debian users,
>  
> I am trying to install Debian Linux on an iMAC computer.
>  
> I bought a set of distribution disks and booted the disk 1 then 
> followed the directions and successfully installed the command line 
> Debian Linux. 
>  
> However, when it came to the x windows stuff, the install asked what 
> mouse I was using and none of the choices were Mac mice.  I chose one 
> of the generic mice and went on.  Then install asked for what video 
> driver and one of the choices was ati which I think is correct, so 
> that's what I chose. 
>  
> Next it asked for the horizontal and vertical refresh rates.  I 
> guessed, and I am pretty sure I got it wrong, but I can't find the 
> information install is asking for anywhere.  Even the Apple Specs 
> don't give the info I need, unless i'm doing the wrong thing entirely, 
> which may be the case.
>  
> Is there a straight forward "easy" step by step guide specifically for 
> an iMac?  Or does someone recognize what I'm doing wrong?
>  
>
> Pax et bonum,
>  
> John A. English, n/OEF
>  
>  

You might want to subscribe to debian-powerpc 
(http://lists.debian.org/ports.html).

"lspci" will give you a good idea of what your video card is, as well as 
other PCI devices.

It sounds like you've got an older version of Debian than what I'm 
accustomed to; I think the Sid (unstable) flavor, which I installed on a 
G4 half a year or so ago was a bit easier to set up than what you're 
presenting. I assume you're mostly just experimenting at this phase, so 
what I'd suggest is that you add the "unstable" lines to 
"/etc/apt/sources.lst" (just duplicate the "stable" lines, except for 
the "security" entry, probably two lines, and change "stable" to 
"unstable"), and then upgrade your box via "apt-get update" and "apt-get 
dist-upgrade". This should get you a newer version of X that's easier to 
install.

As far as you question about a "step by step guide", you might take a 
look at the official installation guide at 
http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/powerpc/install if you haven't 
already found it. Other than that, perhaps someone else knows of another 
guide to which they can point you.

--
Kent West (westk@acu.edu)