Using a USB Key to Boot pure:dyne

Prepare the live USB key

In order to boot from USB key, it needs to be prepared using the syslinux system. Instructions for doing this are given in the USB install section.

Booting from USB

At this moment, pure:dyne USB booting only works on PCs. We are trying to find a way to get it to boot on the new Apples, which also have intel processors. Although their hardware is well supported by our system, the booting process is very different from PCs and we haven't found a way to do it. If you have an intel based Mac your best option is either liveCD or liveDVD.

To boot from USB, insert the USB key into a USB port and (re)boot your computer. In most cases, your computer will automatically boot from the USB key.
There will be a short pause with a pure:dyne splash screen and a message suggesting that you may push F1 for additional options. Usually you will not require this but you may wish to push F1 to familiarize yourself with these options. Occasionally, systems will require some of these options to boot correctly, especially with old hardware, so if it does not work the first time don't give up, push F1 instead.

Pure:dyne will boot directly into the desktop and you will be logged in as the generic user lintian

Changing the BIOS

If your computer doesn't automatically boot from USB, you need to change a setting in your computer's BIOS. Most PC's allow you to enter the BIOS settings quickly after you start your computer. You are usually prompted to press F12 or F2 to enter the BIOS (check your computers manual if no information is displayed at boot).

Once you entered the BIOS settings, look for the Boot Sequence. You should change the sequence so that the USB is first in the list, the hard drive later. It differs per computer how this is done, please check the manual of your computer if you are unsure how to change these settings.

Sometimes the USB must be unplugged from the socket, and plugged back in, in order to reboot a second or subsequent time. This may depend upon the make of your USB and your computer.