I only had ONE problem with BF2142 with my M9700 and that was solved by disabling VoIP. Other than that BF2142 kicks ass on the M9700. Something is probably wrong with your setup if it isn't playing it right.
Are you using the _respawn_ cd or the _windows_xp_ cd?
Respawn cd never asks for a cdkey at all, just loads Ghost and waits for you to put the image cdr/dvd in and select the image file and go with it.
I think you are trying to...
Well looking at my respawn bootcd+dvd there are actually instructions printed on the back of the case that explains what you need to do.
Do you have this case?
I've noticed something that has happened recently. The sound on the M9700 has these little click/pops during gameplay. Any ideas what could solve this? I've tried reinstalling the sound drivers.
You manage to get Kanotix loaded? It wouldn't boot on my m9700. Was there something specific that you did? I got Knoppix working but the wireless network adapter wouldnt work. (btw, this was a LiveCD)
Well all those who gave advice are pretty much on the money. Attitude, language, etc are all factors people look at when hiring. I'd give bed/bath and kohls a shot. Try the mall, most malls have a list of all the stores that are hiring...