I'm trying to install Linux on my really old LGX12 laptop, which has an Intel Atom N270 processor from the Windows XP days. The BIOS is quite outdated as well. I've attempted to shrink the C partition, create a FAT32 partition, and copy Linux Lite files onto it, but nothing shows up in the boot menu. I also tried the Netbootin method, but I'm not having any luck. The boot menu currently only displays the IDE HDD and a PXE option. Is there any way to get Linux installed on this laptop without using a USB stick?
6 Answers
If you're determined to breathe life into this laptop, consider replacing the current HDD with an SSD, installing a 32-bit Linux on a newer machine, and then swapping it back in. Just make sure your laptop has a SATA interface for that to work!
You're working with a 32-bit CPU here. Many distros are phasing out support for 32-bit, so if you can't boot from USB and have no CD drive, PXE booting could be the way to go. Just keep in mind you'll need an old 32-bit ISO and it may not run smoothly. Is it worth the trouble? But if you're set on it, AntiX is a solid choice for older machines.
Yeah, AntiX has a decent 32-bit version. It's worth trying out if you can get USB booting to work.
You might try using an external USB DVD or CD drive if you have one lying around. Other than that, PXE booting over the network could be your last option.
If nothing seems to work, you could always pull the HDD out, install Linux on it using another machine, and then put it back in your old laptop. It's a bit of extra effort, but it gets the job done!
Copying files to a FAT32 partition won't add them to the boot menu. Since Windows XP is running, you could try using UNetbootin's 'hard disk mode' for dual-booting. Just remember, Linux Lite dropped 32-bit support after version 3.8, so you'll need a compatible distro.
I see your laptop has a USB port. Is there a specific reason you're avoiding that option?
Most likely, the BIOS can't boot from USB. That was a common issue back in the day.
But I think it has an IDE connection, not SATA.