problems installing linux

[Da_riPPer]

Hello, Please, if anyone can help, i'm desperate...
I've worked my way through about 3 linux releases trying to install any one of the three that could work, but nothing seems to work.
I just bought a new AMD 64bit pc, and now i'm having trouble installing my linux.
I Have mandrake linux 10, mandrake 10.1 community and mandriva linux 2005 limited edition.
Firstly, when I want to install my mandrake 10, I start the installation and then it tells me that there is no cd-rom, and to insert the additional drivers floppy (which I cant find).
My mandrake 10.1 community installs, and boots, and starts etc...
but, I can't seem to compile c++ code on it, it says the g++ command is not found or unknown... I also don't know how to install these packages.
And then, my mandriva linux install starts but then just randomly reezes somewhere during the installation?
I really need linux to do a c++ assignment and i am now clueless.
Any ideas to how i can just get a linux installed on which I can compile my c++ code???

It would be greatly appreciated
Thanks

[LondoJowo]

Have you tried installing gcc from the installation CD? It's been a while since I used Mandriva/Mandrake but you should have Install Software selection under Software Manager. Just perform a search for gcc.

[AlexK]

10.1 Community is kinda buggy, try getting 10.1 official, it is more stable. Also gcc can be found under the development submenu in the Mandrake installer.

[Da_riPPer]

Yes, I went to install software in 10.1 (the one that installs), but I can't seem to find the gcc package there? How can I just install the package?

[AlexK]

gcc can be found under development in the software update of the MCC:

Or you can install gcc with urpmi, first setup the correct ftp servers using this easyurpmi site, then
as root, enter into a terminal:

urpmi gcc

if it finds several entries for gcc, select a gcc from the 3.x series as the 4.x series is kind of buggy (in my experience).