GA-E350N-WIN8: Can't install any Linux distro

[weetabixharry2]

I have a GA-E350N-WIN8 (rev. 1.0) motherboard with an integrated E-350D APU. I want to install Linux (I don't really mind which distro at the moment), but every time I try to start any installation, the screen just goes black and nothing happens. To clarify, the Linux installer boots fine from USB and I can select an installation option, but then the screen goes black.

So far, I have tried all possible installation options for the latest Debian (9.2.1), Ubuntu (16.04.3) and CentOS (7-1708) releases, all with exactly the same result.

The system is otherwise working. I've reset the BIOS to optimized defaults. I've run memtest and the 4GB of RAM checks out fine. I've tried booting a Windows 7 installer from USB and that starts up fine.

I've searched online and can't find anyone talking about similar issues. Is there something obvious I should be doing differently? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[shadowsports]

Chances are its that AMD GPU on the Included APU

You'll need to use "nomodeset" , "nolapic" or install in basic graphics mode depending on the distro being installed.  Google these terms and you'll see what I'm talking about.  Also, ensure your display is connected directly to your board's port via cable and not through an adapter or any sort.

Cheers

[weetabixharry2]

Chances are its that AMD GPU on the Included APU

You'll need to use "nomodeset" , "nolapic" or install in basic graphics mode depending on the distro being installed.  Google these terms and you'll see what I'm talking about.  Also, ensure your display is connected directly to your board's port via cable and not through an adapter or any sort.

Cheers

Yeah, I tried all the low graphics / no GUI options, but still no dice. In this particular case, I decided it's difficult to justify all the extra grief of trying to get linux to play ball when I can buy a Windows 7 COA for £3 including P&P on eBay. After 2 days of black screens, I caved in. Windows 7 installed and ran straight out the box.

Next time, I'll check linux support before buying the hardware.