Re: [UUG/MLUG] TOASTER.

[Scott Greathouse <EMAIL:PROTECTED>]

If you are a neophyte, I can only beg you not to attempt a laptop install for
your first experience with Linux. OK, maybe I am exaggerating, but you should
get a little comfortable with Linux before you try that. Laptops tend to have
strange parts that don't always cooperate.
For running X-Windows, you need more than a 486 and more than 4 MB of RAM. And
if you want it to look really sweet (i.e., Gnome or KDE) you need more like 32
or even 48 MB of RAM. Linux itself runs great on a 486 with 4MB of RAM, but
you probably don't want to use Lynx to surf the internet.
Regarding the Linux Toaster project, the goal is to make a machine that is
super easy to use and performs all major home computer functions; but one of
the assumptions is that most users aren't capable of installing any operating
system, so super easy installation is not one of the parameters. Linux is
becoming easier and easier to install all the time, though, and supports tons
of hardware. LinuxPPC (for Macintoshes) looks like it will have a very easy
installation program when it finally gets released, not that it will help your
486 any.  :)

Neil Warner wrote:

>         Sorry if this is ignorant 'cause i haven't searched...
>
> Any luck on the Linux Toaster project?  IE, what about the "idiot user" if
> you will, and people's arguments that Linux is very difficult to setup and
> administer? I could accept conceivably that that is its one serious
> drawback, outweighed by other factors in many occasions, but if there is
> progress in that area.
>
> And can anyone sugest a good way to do a ****X  (grin) on my Compaq
> Contura 486/33 laptop. I have 4 meg of RAM and a 14.4 modem currently. I'd
> love to learn about Linux and stuff but the practical goal is to have
> something faster and more usable for netsurfing than Win 3.11 w/ a
> browser.  Am I losing my mind? Is what I have w/ Opera the thing, or can I
> get an X or something somehow.
>
> I am quite a neophyte, I confess.
>
> Thanks...
>
> /\/eil

--
Scott Greathouse
Research Coordinator
Assessment Resource Center
(573) 882-2963