Another try: no internet + lousy screen resolution

[terry]

computer, hp pavilion dv9700: cpu , amd turion 64x2 mobile TL-60 2.00 
gHz: 3.0 GB memory:  32 bit system: Video, nvidia Geforce Go 7150M: Laptop
Ubuntu 8.10 will load with help. 9.04 doesn't get past the selection 
screen. Both are livecds, i386.

no internet, yet driver query says Atheros support is loaded  and 
functional and checked by ubuntu people.
monitor 800x600 or less choices.

both disks load up on an older dell desktop,it si wired to the internet. 
windows works fine.
any suggestions.