How to install Linux or BSD?

[Ayman Altounji]

Hi! I'm trying to install some UNIX variant OS on this ML350 with a SmartArray 431 configured with a RAID 0 and RAID 5 array. I've tried installing OpenBSD 2.8 with no luck (didn't recognize the array drives), RedHat Linux 6.2 - no luck - locked up half way through the installation process, and Caldera eServer 2.3, which doesn't recognize the logical drives in the array.

How does this machine support Linux? Do I need to get a different array controller?

I also tried installing an IDE drive, which proved to be a wierd experience. While the BIOS refuses to boot the IDE drive, both OpenLinux and OpenBSD recognize it and are able to install onto it! If I could get the BIOS to boot the internal IDE drive, well, my problems would be solved (maybe).

To recap:

(1) In what configuration can I install RedHat Linux or OpenLinux?
(2) How can I get the BIOS to boot the internal IDE hard drive?

NOTE: I have not installed any of the patches/updates on Compaq's site. This is a machine purchased Dec 15th, 2000.

Thanks!

-- Jake

[Ayman Altounji]

go here http://www.compaq.com/products/servers/linux/ and here http://www.compaq.com/support/files/server/us/locate/35_1121.html I have install Redhat 7.0 no problem on a dl360 which uses the same driver as the SA431

[Ayman Altounji]

You need to be using a version of Linux that has been tested and certified and includes the required driver support. See the Linux certification list for Compaq Proliant products at this web address.
http://www.compaq.com/products/servers/Linux/OSMatrix1.html

If the system has been tested and not certified, you have to install the required patches and drivers into the Linux OS.

See this web page for instructions on installing and using Linux on Compaq systems.
http://www.compaq.com/products/servers/Linux/compaq-howto.html

[Ayman Altounji]

OpenBSD 2.9 has the driver, and works beautifully. (2.8 didn't)