First time Amahi user with ExpressCD questions.

[DSWendelin]

I'm going to try Amahi for the first time this weekend. I plan to use the new ExpressCD. I don't see expressly mentioned in the online documentation; do I need to install Fedora before using the ExpressCD? Do I need to complete the online registration at the Amahi site before or after I use the ExpressCD?

Thanks for the creation of this server software. I'll let you know how my experience with the ExpressCD goes from the standpoint of a home user completely new to servers.

[bigfoot65]

Hello,

The Express CD is Fedora 12 slimmed down and includes the Amahi packages needed for install. You need to register on the web site prior to install.

Keep in mind that this will not provide you with a Fedora Desktop environment initially. It is designed for headless machines. The install is graphical, but after that it is a typical server....command line interface unless you install the Gnome Desktop application.

Hope this answers your questions. If you need any help, please drop by the IRC or post here.

[DSWendelin]

Thanks for the very prompt and informative response. Headless is what I was seeking.

I'll let you know how it goes.

[bigfoot65]

No problem. Just remember the install is not headless. Once you complete install, you should be able to go headless.

[DSWendelin]

So, my first question/comment for the expressCD installation is that after I pick the express install off the initial menu, there's no further feedback. It's been installing (I think) for about 30 minutes or so, but I have no idea how long it should take, or whether it is progressing correctly, or whether the whole thing has crashed.

Is there supposed to be something onscreen besides the cursor during ExpressCD installation? If not, how long should the process take? Is there any way to judge progress?

[cpg]

Yes, it should ask you for your install code and then take over!

This looks like maybe the Fedora disk does not support well your graphics hardware. Maybe it's too old or too new. Any chance you could replace it ?

A graphical interface should come up nearly right away. Ask for local things like timezone, etc. Then ask your code, and go.

[DSWendelin]

No, it never asks for the install code, it just goes to black once I've selected express install.

I'm planning on buying new hardware to be my home server, but wanted to try Amahi out first on an old computer because I'm trying to decide between building a server to use with Amahi versus buying one of HP's Home Media Servers preconfigured with WHS.

Thanks for the prompt reply, it's likely a graphics card issue.

[DSWendelin]

Switched out for a different, less ancient, graphics card and the installation is now proceeding. Thanks for the tip.