[sf-lug] Linux install on Older Laptop (Ubuntu??)

[Neil]

I'm actually writing this in the middle of working through a new xubuntu
install.  I can't comment on the  use of that laptop but I can say that the
xubuntu install (Desktop CD) is pretty straight forward.  I do have two
complaints/comments about it: 1- If you are an advanced user who has
installed various flavors of linux you'll be shocked as to how little this
installer asks you.  2 - It seems like a fairly minimal install, which  is a
good thing.  Idea 1 is great for new users who don't want to answer lots of
questions, but 2 leaves them with a system that works, but may not have what
they want.

Another comment regarding new users in general: It is important that you
understand everything this person wants to do and can get the machine setup
for that.  Main examples I can think of are restricted codec issues, and
openoffice/MS office compatability.

Personally I think xfce is great and gives you a lot to work with.
Let us know how it goes.
--Neil


On 27 Sep 2007 16:19:09 -0400, Blake Haggerty <Blake.Haggerty at sapphire.com>
wrote:
>
> This weekend I am going to be installing Linux on a Co-workers laptop. It
> took me awhile but eventually he is ready to switch and he's actually rather
> excited about it. His laptop is a Pentium 3 455Mhz and it has 340mb of RAM.
> I am curious as to suggestions on what distro to set him up with. I am
> leaning toward Ubuntu because of the ease of use and how it is very good
> with detecting new hardware and having it work easily. I dont feel like
> spending all weekend pulling my hair out trying to get it to recognize the
> wireless card.
>
> Now I think that maybe his machine isn't fast enough for Ubuntu??  So I
> was considering XUbuntu, Has anyone had experience with this??
>
> His needs are rather simple: Surf the internet, Listen to MP3's/manage his
> IPOD, Download MP3s (Bittornado, Amule) and some word processing.  I'd like
> it to be rather fast for him too.
>
> What are people experiences with XFCE as a desktop is it missing a ton of
> features?  Is it stable? Is it easy to use??
> Any issues with IPOD management??
>
>
>
>   *Blake Haggerty*
> Technical Recruiter    *Work:* 415-788-8488 x215
> *Fax:* 415-788-2592
> *Email:* blake.haggerty at sapphire.com
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