Linux + Windows install question

[Jim Kuzdrall]

On Thursday 27 October 2005 08:43 pm, Peter wrote:
> I am going to be installing Linux (Debian) on a new HD. I also have a
> Windows HD that will likely make it onto that machine. Am I better
> off putting that Win HD in my machine before installing Linux (or is
> it better or just as easy to put the Win HD in the machine after the
> Linux install is complete)? Thank you in advance for your input.

    Windows must go on the first partition of its drive - which 
apparently you now have with your existing Windows drive.  Then put 
GRUB on that drive with it.

    That having been done, Linux could have been already installed on a 
second partition or another drive.  It is just a matter of pointing 
GRUB to where Linux resides.  (As I recall, GRUB can go on any drive as 
long as the BIOS accesses its drive first.)

    I do keep a small Win98 partition on my travel laptop for some math 
and engineering programs that only exist for Windows.  However, I find 
separate computers to be a much better solution for office work.  With 
hardware so cheap and many very capable retired computers available, 
you might consider a KVM switch.

    The switch I have accommodates only 2 computers, so it is quite 
small.  Pressing Scroll-Lock twice and "2" instantly gets you Windows.  
The same with a "1" pops up Linux.  Ethernet and Samba provide the 
link.

Jim Kuzdrall