Sorry but this is not the right distribution to use for a beginner. You need to have worked with linux for at least 6 months and have experience with bash.

You have not stated which option you used to install Knoppix (you need to choose Debian or Beginner option). The options to mount drives are all controlled from /etc/fstab (including your cdrom option). As a minmum you need to post:

dmesg | grep hd

cat /etc/fstab

You should also note that fstab will always be modified by knoppix unless you use the nofstab and the tip by Johnny H.

http://www.knoppix.net/forum/viewtop...759&highlight=

Dont give up though Ubuntu,Suse and Mandriva are pretty easy to use, and theres no reason why you cant dual boot both
once you gain experience