LyX ⇒ Can't get Lyx working 100% due to LaTeX distribution failing

[robinashe]

So I downloaded the latest Lyx including Miktex. Tried installing twice, both times it failed, although not in the same way - different error each time but both times it prevented me from choosing a document class as everything was unavailable. Otherwise I could do things fine (based on my limited experience with LaTeX).

I figured it might be the distro so I tried TeX Live and the install there failed too, didn't even get to installing tex.exe.

I'm just learning LaTeX and Lyx literally from square one, so I'd just like something that works. Both TeX Live and Miktex installs took ages, so before trying a 3rd one I'd like to know something that'll work with some reliability.

About my system, I'm running Windows 7 Enterprise 32bit, unfortunately on a Sony Vaio SZ650N, which I couldn't get all the drivers working for, but it is a fresh install of Windows. What's a safe and reliable LaTeX distribution that I could try, possibly one that I can just unzip and use rather than installing?

[josephwright]

We need more information. In what way does the installation of MiKTeX fail? Have you considered try TeX Live?

[robinashe]

It's like an interrupted unzip. Partway through the installation something goes wrong and it stops doing anything further. It's not the same error each time either.

As Mentioned in the post, same problem with Tex Live.

[meho_r]

Regarding the speed, I suggest you download TL2009 DVD iso image and then mount it with some virtual drive manager (e.g. daemon tools) and install from there. I noticed that installation from dvd disk takes about 4 hours, while installation from mounted .iso file takes about 4-5 minutes.

Also, check md5sum of downloaded .iso image to make sure you don't have a damaged one.

[robinashe]

Thanks. That sounds like a workable solution. I'll give it a shot!

[Montag]

Next time, only download the "Basic MiKTeX 2.8" Installer.
Only install it for yourself, not for all users.
Enable automatic download of missing packages, meaning enable "on-the-fl"y install.