Ask Slashdot: Installing Debian2 on a Dell 433/M

Slashdot reader Rikard Stemland Skjelsvik writes in with this problem: I have trouble installing Linux on a DELL 433/M machine . The distrubution i have tried is DEBIAN 2 (hamm). The machine should have enough machine resources to work. When using the rescue diskette the following happens..."

1. the machine boots
2. "Loading Linux" messages is displayed
3. I get the Boot prompt.
4. When pressing enter or trying some of the options..the machine stops.
5. The screen goes black and starts to flicker.
6. If I wait a while and then press enter, the machine responds by accessing the diskette drive. I have tried all the other diskettes at this point. Often it will not respond at all.

It is not a diskette fault . I have tried several diskettes and I have successfully installed Debian on other machines. I have contacted DELL and they could not help me, other than directing me to a not finished Linux Diagnostic Site.. I have look for information several other places too, but to no avail. If any one has installed any version of Linux on a DELL 433/M, I would be very gratefull to hear their experiences or any suggestions as to what I am doing wrong.