Hmmm. Your post is less about Remastering and Customizing to make new Knoppix CD and more about Debian/HD install. So I gather this post belongs in the HD install forum.

You will need to learn about Debian's method of package management. http://www.debian.org/doc/manuals/apt-howto/ http://www.nongnu.org/synaptic/ http://packages.debian.org/unstable/admin/aptitude.

Personally I do not see the point of taking the time to install Knoppix with its huge list of programs and then taking more time to remove it all. In my opinion, you should just install Debian. Go here http://cdimage.debian.org/pub/cdimag...i386/20050120/ and choose an ISO image to download. Either ISO will allow you to install a minimal system and will present you with the choice to add software as necessary.
I hope this helps.
James