Laptop Recommendations - Linux

noob

noob

noob

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18 Oct 2002
Posts
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Hi Guys

I want to learn more about Linux so I thought I might as well buy an old laptop to practice on. I'm not sure which distro I will be using although what is the minimum requirements for most distros? Is 256mb of RAM enough? Maybe a P3 processor?

Cheers
 
noob said:
...

Another question though, I know there are many different distros but are the underlying commands the same? Is the difference between distros just the gui and applications they offer?
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more or less, yes. certainly that'll be the case as far as you're concerned (from a newbie point of view).
there are some deeper differences but they likely wont make much odds to you for a while yet.

if you're after a cheap laptop for playing with linux, i'd suggest an old IBM thinkpad.
they have been around for ages, are generally rock solid and are very well supported by linux.
the more exotic the hardware, the more problems you will encounter with linux :)
 
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^^^^

I've also been told that the old Thinkpads are an excellent choice for Linux. I tried a Ubuntu Live CD on one at work and it picked everything up straight away. Really tempted to get one myself for Ubuntu :)
 
;) Cheers guys. I've just ordered a refurbished IBM T41 for £330 including vat and delivery. Specs as follows: -

Intel Centrino 1.6 Ghz
1024Mb RAM

40Gb Hard Drive

14.1" TFT (XGA 1024x768 resolution)

Windows XP Pro Pre-installed
802.11 built in wireless card

DVD/CD ROM Drive

10/100 Networking

56k Fax Modem

Stereo Speakers
2 x USB 2.0, Parallel, 2 x PCMCIA, 10/100 Networking, External VGA, Audio Out, TV Out

Charger, Mains Cable & Modem Lead included
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Won't be needing Windows XP Pro though. :p
 
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Just out of interest what graphics chipset is it using?

If you try Beryl can you let us know how you get on?

Cheers
 
Probably using some sort of integrated Intel model.

I've got an Intel 915GMA on my laptop and it ran Beryl ok. On the "Holywood ain't got nothing" (LOL!) setting it was fine. Maybe a bit of slow down when it spins the 3D cube between desktops.
 
GraemeUK said:
Just out of interest what graphics chipset is it using?

If you try Beryl can you let us know how you get on?

Cheers
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32mb Radeon 7500 Video card, nothing great but for the price of the laptop you can't complain. Who's Beryl hehe ;)
 
Installing Ubuntu now guys, very easy installation. I'm looking forward to using it. I'll let you know how I get on.
 
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