linux newbie question: xterm and startx

[rookie1010]

Hi
I tried to do an xterm, i can do it from normal mode, but as root it won't allow me to do it, what is ths reason for it.

i also tried to do a startx, it would not let me do it,
i got the folling message
Fatal server error:
Server is already active for display 0
If this server is no longer running, remove /tmp/.X0-lock
and start again.


If you encounter a server crash, please report the problem by filing a bug
report in the XFree86.org bugzilla at http://bugs.xfree86.org and/or Red Hat
bugzilla at http://bugzilla.redhat.com/bugzilla. When filing your report, it
is very important that you explain your problem in as much detail as possible,
and include a complete description on how to reproduce the problem. After
submitting the bug report, attach the following files as uncompressed
individual file attachments using the bugzilla file attachment feature:
- Kernel log file: /var/log/messages


xinit: unexpected signal 2.

i am a linux newbie, i am sure i am asking something basic, please bear with me

 

[rookie1010]

yes, x had already been running and when i switched to another tty, i could start x.