on Sun, Sep 28, 2003 at 06:23:47PM -0500, Kent West (westk@acu.edu) wrote:
> alex wrote:
>
> >Suppose someone wants to put together or buy a computer ---something
> >that is fully compatible with Linux.....no makedo patches such as for
> >winmodems or other components, etc---how can you make sure you're
> >getting what you want?
> >
> >What are the indicators that will tell us whether the components are
> >fully Linux compatible, whether they are part of a ready to run
> >Windows computer, a systemless computer, a bare bones box, or one that
> >you build from scratch?
> Last time I bought a computer, I had the sales guy fire it up with my
> Knoppix CD in it. I wasn't able to test the modem, but I was able to
> run pppconfig and see that the modem was not autodetected. Everything
> else, sound, ethernet, etc (don't believe I tested APM) worked fine.
> Of course, this won't work for individual pieces if you're building
> your own, and may not work depending on what test-setup is available
> at the store, or if you're buying online. As a side benefit, I was
> able to "sell" the sales guy on Knoppix. (I may have even left him a
> copy; I can't remember).
I have to second this strongly.
If you're buying a system from a small vendor, leave a copy of the
Knoppix disk with them for compatibility testing.
Essentially: boot the system and try everything you can -- graphics,
disk, network, modem, sound, USB, Firewire. You should be able to get a
pretty good idea of everything that does or doesn't work properly. If
thet system doesn't meet your expectations, explain to the vendor
specifically why you're rejecting it.
Additionally: the 'system-info' script found at the URL below will give
you a useful catalog of the configuration and capabilities of the
system, run it and save output.
http://twiki.iwethey.org/Main/LinuxSystemInfoScript
There is a similar tool packaged for Debian, though the name slips my
mind. I prefer the output selection/formatting of the system-info
script.
Peace.
--
Karsten M. Self <kmself@ix.netcom.com> http://kmself.home.netcom.com/
What Part of "Gestalt" don't you understand?
At the sound of the toner, boycott Lexmark: trade restraint via DMCA.
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