Re: Inexpensive Laptop for Debian
Hi.
On Fri, 29 May 2015 23:37:19 -0400
Doug <dmcgarrett@optonline.net> wrote:
>
>
> On 05/29/2015 10:38 PM, Robert Crawford wrote:
> >
> > On May 29, 2015 7:04 PM, "John Aten" <welcome.to.eye.o.rama@gmail.com <mailto:welcome.to.eye.o.rama@gmail.com>> wrote:
> > >
> > > Hey all,
> > > I would like to see if anyone could give some advice or opinions on getting an inexpensive laptop to run Debian. I plan to use the machine for lighter duty functions; writing, web browsing, programming, etc. Basically, I am looking for something with a little more muscle than a Chromebook. Most laptops that I have seen that come with Debian or other distros preinstalled seem to be more expensive than I would like, so that of course leaves me installing it myself. I have researched this, and can never seem to find solid information on the laptops that are currently available; the information is usually a little dated.
> > > I have some experience setting up Debian and other distros, but if there are problems with hardware configuration, I get out into the deep end fast. I would like to avoid any problems that are beyond the reach of my very modest skills.
> > > I see that Dell offers the Inspiron 14 or 15 3000 series non-touch laptop with Ubuntu preinstalled; this model is around the price/spec range that I would like. I figure, if it runs Ubuntu, then this is possibly a good indication that I could install Debian; I was wondering first, if that is a good assumption, and also if anyone has had any experience with installing Debian on this particular model. (I have an older Inspiron, on which I have had good luck installing several different distros, including Debian, but I don't know that this really indicates anything either.) Second, aside from this particular model, if anyone has recommendations on any other laptops in that price/spec range?
> > > I'd appreciate any help and opinions.
> > >
> > > Thanks,
> > >
> > > J
> >
> > John,
> >
> > I just bought a Dell Latitude D810, I installed 80gb ide hard drive. It came with 512mb ram. I've install a 512 module until my other ram comes in. I 2gb ordered (total 768mb). I installed Xubuntu 14.04.1 on it. It has a single core CPU. Ethernet and WiFi works. I got everything from EBay. This was a low cost laptop. I'm very happy with it.
> >
> > If you want dual core & sata hd, look for a latitude D820-D830 series.
> >
> > Robert
> >
> > I
> >
> If you buy a Dell with Windows 7 installed on it, you'd better try and use Windows to shrink the partition and make room for Linux.
… You just by an extra 3.5'' form-factor disk and replace the stock
one. Next you install Debian at the new disk, and keep the old one in
case you need your notebook repaired.
Which measure:
a) Saves you the trouble of running Windows and re-partitioning the
drive.
b) Ensures that those sneaky repair guys would not be able to do highly
questionable stuff which includes, but not limited to:
- Copying your data.
- Completely destroying your custom partitioning *and* your Debian
installation by re-installing aforementioned Windows.
It's impossible to dual-boot this way, of course.
Reco
Reply to: