Blank screen during a Linux graphical installation

Posted by Vivek Gite [Last updated: October 9, 2006]

Q. I am using Dell Laptop to install a Linux. However during installing I am getting a blank screen? How do I fix this problem? I need Cent OS Linux for testing web and php application on this Laptop.

A. Chances are very high that your latest laptop screen may not be detected by Linux distribution. However you can force to use VGA screen option. This may work out:

At the boot prompt type the command:
boot: linux vga=2

Or better pass ask parameter
boot: linux vga=ask

It will help if you have problems related to vga card to change the startup video mode.

Another recommended option is install linux in text mode and later configure screen and display card. Type the following boot parameter:
boot: linux text

Please note that vga is actually a boot loader parameter; the value is passed to the kernel using a special protocol.

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