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    Vista and Ubuntu Duel boot problem

    Discussion in 'Linux Compatibility and Software' started by hiddensanctum, Mar 18, 2008.

  1. hiddensanctum

    hiddensanctum Notebook Evangelist

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    Okay so I install both Vista and Ubuntu onto my computer. But I decided to install Ubuntu onto my portable HDD (Vista is on my laptop's HDD). The problem now is that if I disconnect my portable HDD my laptop won't even be able to start because of the GRUB. Anyone know how I can fix this? (and I'd really prefer not to even have the GRUB. I'd rather manually select to boot from my portable HDD)
     
  2. timberwolf

    timberwolf Notebook Consultant

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    1) To be able to boot Vista as it used to be, you'll need replace the GRUB boot code that got installed into the Master Boot Record with Microsoft boot code on your internal laptop hard disk. I've provide links to messages to postings with details on to fix your MBR.

    http://forum.notebookreview.com/showpost.php?p=3089312&postcount=3

    2) Booting from the external HD will depend on the laptop bios, and whether we can work out how to do it and then talk you through some command line hacking, because I doubt that the Ubuntu installer can configure GRUB to do this.
     
  3. Amol

    Amol APH! NBR Reviewer

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    Duel boot? It's probably not working because they're too busy fighting each other.

    But seriously, why didn't you do a persistent install on the external? www.pendrivelinux.com has guides to help you.
     
  4. v1k1ng1001

    v1k1ng1001 Notebook Deity

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    replace grub with GAG
     
  5. dmacfour

    dmacfour Are you aware...

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    I had problems too and just fixed the MBR and added Ubuntu to the windows MBR with EasyBCD.