How to manually install Ubuntu

[Jim Byrnes]

Is there a way to skip the step where it starts the partitioner?

I've been trying to install Ubuntu 9.10 on an Eeepc for over a week now. 
I've overcome a lot of problems but now the install hangs on the 
partitioner step.

I would like to boot the Gpartd Live CD, setup and format the disk the 
way I want it and then install Ubuntu to it without the partitioner 
getting involved.

The SSD seems to be good now. I've used dd to wipe it twice, then I ran 
testdisk and it showed no errors.  I've even taken the Eeepc recovery CD 
and installed the original OS, but I cannot get Ubuntu to install.

Thanks,  Jim