[jbc]

I will be getting an old PC with Windos ME shortly that I will convert to Linux. I plan to download a linux distribution from the web at work, which has XP. I will put the software to CD then use the software to convert the PC to Linux, Now for the questions:

1) Does Linux include a program for re-formating the ME hard disk so that it can install on the hard drive? The installation software will be run from ME.

2) Where would you recommend that I go for Linux software? I plan to use the Linux Mozilla when I get things going.

3) I do not wish to disturb the XP computer at work. Can I do the download and transfer to CDs safely?

[jakec]

JBC,

Does Linux include a reformatting program

Yes as part of the installer, this is inclusive of ALL Linux Distros

where to go for Linux software

there are a few sites you can go to to D/L Linux software a good place to start is the Linux Distro Chooser, this will give you a series of questions then based on the answers it gives you your ideal Linux distro http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/

then goto a website Like http://distrowatch.com/ to D/L the Distros or the Distro Homepage depending on which one you decide on

Can I D/L the ISO files safley

Sure you can! all you need is to D/L the iso to the HDD go to your burning application (I use nero) select the desination where you saved the file to, retreive the file and select Burn image to disk

Here are a few Personal Reccomendations for Linux Distros:

Kubuntu
http://www.kubuntu.org/

Mandriva
http://frontal2.mandriva.com/en/downloads/mirrors

Mephis
http://www.mepis.org/

PCLinuxOS
http://www.pclinuxonline.com/pclos/html/download.html

This is the distro I use and recommend, Why because it works right out of the box. No need to configure Everything, everything just works. It also comes as a 1 CD install that is a live CD that you can install later if you wish.

hope this Helps,

Jake

[jbc]

How about compatibility issues with older hardware. What sorts of issues do I need to look out for?

[The General]

Linux supports 99% of all older hardware. The only issue you need to look out for is ATi video cards.