Machine locks in "Probing devices..." (4.9-RELEASE)

[Carlos A. Carnero Delgado]

Hello,

I'm installing 4.9-RELEASE into a (marginally) older Compaq computer
(Presario 7000 series, Pentium III 1GHz). Well, booting off the CD doesn't
work (a 4.8-RELEASE disc does); so I had to go with the floppy method.

Way after the MFS is loaded, this machine seems to lock up in the "Probing
devices" phase. How much time does that take?

Is there a way for me to see what's locking up the probing?

Best regards,
Carlos.