Installing Linux) HELLLLPPPP!

[Oldandeasilyconfused]

Trying to install Linux Mint on my sister's elderly HP. (40GB hard drive)

Tried the method I used on my old Pentium 4.Viz; Wiped the hard drive using D-ban (3passes) ran the MINT disc and installed Mint. THAT worked spiffingly.

Doesn't work : On booting I get this error message:

GRUB loading

error: out of disc
grub rescue>

I gather I needed to do some manual partitioning,but I didn't and don't know how.

What do I do now? I've been looking for tutorials on line but so far they have just confused me. Are there adjustments I can make ,or do I need to clean the hard drive and start again?

OR is there another Linux version idiot proof to install?

I suggested Linux to sis all she uses her PC for is email and some surfing and mainly uses a laptop anyway.

Simple instructions or a tutorial for dummies would be most appreciated.

[Tiberius]

When GRUB fails, it's a horrible experience. Luckily it booted into rescue mode, and you can use that to fix the install:

https://help.ubuntu.com/community/Grub2#Rescue%20Mode

In my experience, Linux Mint doesn't install very well. On my old laptop it never booted the Live CD, and then when I got it to boot, the installation kept crashing. If you want your sister to use something easy, use Ubuntu.

[leo-rcc]

That rescue mode page for Ubuntu should also work for Mint, both have the same basis. I've installed Mint a few times and the only annoyance I've ever encountered with it is the long time it took to load the Live-CD before I could go to the install procedure. I prefer Ubuntu, but there is pretty much nothing between them really.

[Oldandeasilyconfused]

Thanks guys. I shall persevere. I love it when it isn't because I did something stupid.