Miscellaneous scripts

Initrd image
1. To create initrd image on debian / ubuntu based systems
update-initramfs -k 2.6.23.9 -c -v

2. To unpack initrd image
cpio --extract < initrd file

Ubuntu Gutsy 7.10 from USB disk...

This article is not intended to be a step by step installation process.

Why? I wanted to just carry around a usb harddisk around, plug on to any CPU(with BIOS support to boot from external USB disk) and boot from it.

Hardware. I got a 320 GB seagate harddisk (Requires external power supply) and Zippy cover that connects the hard disk as a USB device on to the machine. Costs totally around Rs.4300

Some installation considerations
1. Inspite of the fact that my processor is 64 bit, installed 32 bit, as 32 bit machines are ubiquitous.
2. I created a swap partition on the USB, as the host machine can be a W$ only machine. Probably not efficient, as access over USB is definitely slow.
3. I installed on my laptop and dint want the internal harddisk to be touched. I tried booting by disabling it in BIOS, but Ubuntu installer was still able to see it. Wonder how and why?
4. Two problems with MBR grub installation
a. Ubuntu by default installs the MBR on first disk
b. During installation, the USB disk appears second (hd1) and during boot (after installation) appears first (hd0)
How to overcome it -
a. The advanced option on the last screen of installer, allows changes to the partition where MBR is to be installed (change from hd0 to hd1)
b. Once the installation is complete, the /boot/grub/menulist needs to be updated back to hd0.

Well its worth all the pain.. I have a brand new kubuntu (with Compiz fusion) on it working.....
Kubuntu (Gutsy) + Compiz just rocks...
Going crazy over super + tab and cubes......