concerns re installation

I read recently that error in installation can result in laptop fan not working, leading to hardware problems...Is this true????...:yumAm shocked and a bit dubious because I would have expected that fan would respond to come kind of heat sensor, not software...wot??? Also, that there are some creeps who post malicious code, so that one should look it up if unsure. Are there other hazards I should know about? I want to install ubuntu on usb stick, for dell inspiron laptop.... I dont want to damage XP or my files on the harddrive.

 

Run the Ubuntu LIVE CD and when in a live session, look at this page on Ubuntu on a USB Stick.

You will have to repost your question on hardware in the Hardware forum.