Install = endless loop during Ubuntu install

[Steve .]

THE CHALLENGE:  Endless loop during Ubuntu install in unpacking
packages phase after the install prompts for remove CD; reboot, and
then unpacks packages on the hard drive

System message seen: "Timestamp is in the future" (or similar);
install seems to endlessly try/retry unpacking "previously deselected
package"s...

SYSTEM HARDWARE:  ancient Toshiba 320CDT;192M ram; 4G hard drive; ATI
16(?)M vram

CAUSE OF PROBLEM:  Dead CMOS battery and incorrect  system time
setting (laptop system time was set to ~6months previous to current
time).

WORK AROUND:  System clock reset (with Live Linux CD --
Gnoppix/Knoppix/Mandrakemove/whatever works). Reinstall Ubuntu; set
system time option to auto update via net time server

FEEDBACK/SUGGESTION:  Add a 'Set System Time?' query during install...
??? ( if laptop hardware is detected...or maybe, temp reset system
time to years in the future for a laptop auto install... ??? )

Ubuntu installed perfectly and works like a charm (slow due to
outdated equipment--but who's complaining?!--It's useful equipment
again) on my old workhorse. Maybe this info might help another who has
just gotten out an old, forgotten laptop--not knowing the cmos has
expired--to try reviving with Ubantu.

Great linux system! Thank you.

Best regards,

Steve W.
Bellevue, WA