No restart option after install of PClinuxOS 2012.08-KDE (SOLVED)

[batzilla]

I'm re-installing PCLinuxOS 2012.08-KDE from a LiveCD after installing it over a 2009 version.  On the first install, when I got to the screen that says "restart your computer and remove the LiveCD," the only options it gave me when I used the Application Launcher were "log out," "lock," "switch user," and "sleep."  There was no "restart" option.  On the first install, I tried "logout" and, of course, I logged out.  But that was just for the session.  I got a black screen with the login prompt.  So-o-o, I cut off the machine.  When I rebooted, things were really messed up, so here I am.  I'm again at the point of restarting.  How do I restart and remove the LiveCD?  I haven't gotten to any passwords or users yet.

Thanks,

[Just17]

A couple of preliminary questions ....

have you checked the MD5sum of the downloaded ISO against the number provided?

have you done a media check on the burned optical media?

If the optical media is not quite correct then anything might happen when installing.

Do you get the correct log out/reboot options when running 'live' before installing?

[kjpetrie]

Learn the SysRq key sequences which (usually) enable you to close cleanly even it a system becomes unresponsive. Cutting power after writing to the disc is a sure way to corrupt the disc and lose data not yet written from the buffers. Installing involves a lot of writing to disc! Search this forum or Google for "Raising skinny elephants" for more info.

Just17 is right too, ensure the install media is OK. If it is, try again and don't panic if it doesn't work as you expect. Just come here for help.

[agmg]

I'm re-installing PCLinuxOS 2012.08-KDE from a LiveCD after installing it over a 2009 version. 

You formatted the / partition and kept the /home? What is your partition scheme?

[Vorteggs]

I had a similar problem a couple of times.

I got a black screen with the login prompt.

So I rebooted from the command line.

IIRC I logged in (username "guest", password "guest") and used the command reboot.
halt will do as well.
Ctrl-Alt-Delete as well.

[Phil]

I did a reinstall yesterday. MD5 was correct. Got to the restart your machine and I think I selected shutdown. It hung halfway through the shutdown, cannot remember where, so I think I did a REISUB. Booted up ok after that and did the accounts etc.