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x server trouble ?

While opening an icon file (.xpm) that I just saved, my pc crashed & restarted until it got to where the x server starts. It keeps trying to start but fails, over & over. How can I boot to a command line (runlevel 2) before the x server starts so I can remove the offending file. I'am using Linux-Mandrake 6.1 with KDE. Thanks in advance

crojas

In X press Ctrl+Alt+F1 to go to console number 1, then you'll need to edit the 'inittab' file in /etc. Change the runlevel from 5 to 3(Full network in text mode).
RunLevel 2 is without network in text mode.

Daddy101399

ASKER

X never starts, it perpetually keeps trying to but fails (the monitor keeps flashing). Is there a linux equivalent to "safe mode" or some way to boot to a shell without it trying to start x.

antozi

Have you tried with a linux boot diskette? that boots to the command line?

Daddy101399

ASKER

I Tried using the rescue Boot floppy I created during the install. Lilo started & after it found the devices & partitions, it asked for a Root floppy. If I continue with the boot floppy I get kernel panic. I suppose its looking for the root file system. I don't recall making a Root floppy. This is beginning to look like a format & reinstall.

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crojas

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Daddy101399

ASKER

I let it keep trying for about 15 minutes without success. Fortunately I backed up my important data previously. After considering my lack of time, I decided to format & reinstall.
Thanks for your help.... Steve