Debian wont install

[rikpotts]

My pc is old and ive been recommended debian to use as an os.

I downloaded the netinstall version, but when I boot the rom it only gets 2mins into the install because it cant mount my cd rom.

Is there a way of patching the iso i downloaded so that linux can mount my cd rom?
Or if I temporarily use a spare dvd rom can I download the 3 dvds, install them and then configure debian so that it can use my cd rom?

I wouldnt know where to start in making my cd rom drive useable, surely somehow it will work because ubuntu works with it.

Any help would be great!

Many Thanks, Rik

[jonantice]

I don't know the answer to your question but in the first place you wont need all 3 dvd's unless there is software on them that you want, you should only need the 1st one.
Secondly, if you are choosing debian over ubuntu for better performance on your old pc I don't know if you will see much improvement (ubuntu is basically a repackaged debian). Since ubuntu already works on your machine I would suggest Xubuntu (ubuntu with xfce instead of gnome) which is a more lightweight gui. Of course if you want you could also use debian with xfce instead of gnome or kde.

[pianomatrix]

I would try using your DVD-ROM drive for the installation, and see if that works. I'm wondering, though, why the CD-ROM is able to start the installation if it isn't mounted. You don't need to download any DVDs. The netinstall should work just fine.