Linux, even Knoopix won't work

[Dodge7]

I intended to use my old computer for experimenting with Linxu. Only thing is I have this quircky KDS 15" CRT that won't accept certain standard video. So on boot, I need to force Linux to intially boot at 640 x 480 and reset it once the OS is running

1. Is there a standard key to hold down with Linux to allow me to force "safe mode" or basic settings on boot?

2. Does anyone know for the Knoopix Live CD how to force another video resolution on boot [I coudn't find documentation on the web about this]

[aym]

1) Depends on the distro I guess, I'm not aware of a distro that does that just by holding a key, however...

2) http://www.knoppix.net/wiki/Cheat_Codes

Tips&Tricks If you have an old (VGA) monitor and get only flickering with the defaults, try "knoppix-txt xvrefresh=60" or "fb800x600" Most of the boot options are parsed in /etc/init.d/knoppix-autoconfig and the rest is found in /KNOPPIX/boot.img -> miniroot.gz -> linuxrc.

Hope this helps.