Need advice Linux laptops

[niniendowarrior]

Hey,

I need some help from you Linux gurus. I'm looking for a budget friendly Linux compatible Laptop that has nvidia onboard graphics and wifi. I am at a loss at where to look so kindly help this poor soul.

Thanks.

[Michael]

Have you looked at any from Lenovo, Acer, or ASUS? I know they have some lower-end ones with NVIDIA graphics but should be nice build quality and work with Linux. Or are you looking more at the Eee-type PC?

[niniendowarrior]

Well, I was hoping to have wifi, nVidia graphics and an Intel Core Duo processor. But I'll be doing mostly intense database stuff. I'm virtually broke so I'm wanting to have a good balance for power kind of laptop. I don't need ultra portable, just something that has a little umph.

By the way, I did try to check Lenovo, Acer and ASUS... even Dell... but then checking for a laptop with good specs, then checking Linux compatibility, and then the price is a real headache. So, I'm hoping you guys could give me some recommendations.

Please help.

[ivanovic]

If you don't really need much 3D, go for a Laptop with integrated Intel graphics. I currently bought a Thinkpad X60 Tablet. It works perfectly with gentoo, basically everything I tested so far works, even suspend to ram. The hardware quality is really great and it works.

[niniendowarrior]

I'd rather have that little bit extra in 3D, which is why I'm specifically after nVidia boards.

Keep the suggestions coming, because I'm going to have to buy one fairly soon.

About Thinkpads, at first I was thinking of getting R61, until I found out it was a pain to install Linux. Dang Lenovo!

EDIT:

I'm looking at this one. What do you guys think?
ASUS A8JM
http://www.notebookreview.com/default.asp?newsID=2984&review=Asus
http://www.linlap.com/wiki/Asus+A8Jm

[ivanovic]

I'd rather have that little bit extra in 3D, which is why I'm specifically after nVidia boards.

Keep the suggestions coming, because I'm going to have to buy one fairly soon.

About Thinkpads, at first I was thinking of getting R61, until I found out it was a pain to install Linux. Dang Lenovo!

After having a short look at the thinkwiki, it does look like it is supporting linux:
Linux Install Instructions for R61 (http://thinkwiki.org/wiki/Installation_instructions_for_the_ThinkPad_R61)
Regarding the gentoo instructions things seem to work rather nicely with recent distributions. Regarding quality, the ThinkPads are probably among the best hardware available.

Loking at the compatibility listing at http://www.linlap.com/wiki/IBM-Lenovo+Thinkpad+R61, I would say that it should be no real problem. The wireless driver is by now even available directly in the kernel as of kernel 2.6.24.


I'm looking at this one. What do you guys think?
ASUS A8JM
http://www.notebookreview.com/default.asp?newsID=2984&review=Asus
http://www.linlap.com/wiki/Asus+A8Jm

To be honest: No idea how good the asus laptops are. I heard from some people that they would be quite good, from other I heard that they were almost as bad as the ones from Acer. The same regarding quality seems to count for "non-Thinkpad"-Lenovo devices. Their quality might be questionable... I just know that in general all laptops that are directed at business users (like ThinkPads and many others) tend to provide a rather good manufacturing quality.

[Huenengrab]

What about the HP Compaq 6720S? It has a Core 2 Dou 1,6Ghz, 1024 MB RAM (easily upgradeable up to 4GB), 120GB SATA-HDD and Intel GMAX3100 with up to 384MB Video-RAM (taken from the mainboards RAM) and Intel Ethernet/Wireless and a Lightscribe DVD-RW- and CD-RW-drive from TsstCorp.

I like it quite well. After a BIOS-update, everything worked like a charm. In Germany I paid about 550€ for it and it was worth the price. I don't know if its performant enough for your tasks.


It looks like this*:
http://www.laptopspirit.fr/wp-content/uploads/new/hp-compaq-6720s-nbr.jpg


* Picture not taken by me. I can provide you with pictures from any angle of the Laptop, if you'd like.

[niniendowarrior]

I recently spoke to two of my Linux-savvy friends.

One of them says, if you want Linux friendly laptops, you cannot get any better than Dell lappies, which will most likely bust my budget. He also makes mention that onboard nVidia graphics don't appear on middle-ranged laptops, so it's hard to find a balance. He does suggest I pick up either an Acer or Lenovo.

He also planted an evil seed and told me to get a MacBook and install Ubuntu through VmWare, which is starting to sound like a sweet deal.

The other friend is pro-Dell mostly and anti-Apple.

One thing is for sure, these choices are driving me nuts.

About the ThinkPad, seems like I'd have to patch Alsa to get the sound working. At this point in time, the less I compile and build stuff, the better. I think I can buy myself some time before actually splurging on it, but it's woefully difficult to make the choice.

If it's a MacBook, I can live with an Intel, primarily because I don't have a choice. If it's a non-Apple one, I'd want to have nVidia graphics. I just gotta have it when I get one.

Thanks about the suggestion on the HP Compaq. My friend tells me though that HP Compaqs are generally overpriced and underpowered, well at least in this country.

[Huenengrab]

Which country do you live in?

For Germany the price was really good, even if I have to upgrade the RAM. The Intel X3100 ist fast enough for a composited desktop and that's everything I need, when I'm on the road. I'm in no need for games on a laptop. :)

[niniendowarrior]

Philippines. Anyhow, I'd want to pay a little extra for a little bit more power. I'd rather not have an intel graphics card.

[niniendowarrior]

Update,

I just checked out the Macbook and did some research. I don't think I'll be able to use VMWare because there is no free version on Mac. Then it got me thinking of using bootcamp and that didn't turn out good either. Anyway, I'm in the case where I have to work with Linux so that means it's back to square one.

[Huenengrab]

Also the MacBook will also just have Intels onboard-graphics.

What is your budget?

[niniendowarrior]

I'd say my budget would hover at around $1,500. Less, great.

Core 2 Duo, nVidia graphics, wifi, and I hope HD ready.

[hdas]

Please have a look at Dell Vostro 1400. If you were in US, it would have been the most awesome deal (~800 usd !!). Comes with C2D and nv geforce 8400m gs. I got each and every single bit of hardware working flawlessly in linux, including in-built webcam and microphone. The 85Whr battery lasting ~6 hrs is a killer. Other goodies - the less weight and portability at 14", the strong and sleek build, and 2 gb ram. (PS : Don't bitch about windows vista ;).) I am sure no deal can beat this :D.

[niniendowarrior]

Please have a look at Dell Vostro 1400. If you were in US, it would have been the most awesome deal (~800 usd !!). Comes with C2D and nv geforce 8400m gs. I got each and every single bit of hardware working flawlessly in linux, including in-built webcam and microphone. The 85Whr battery lasting ~6 hrs is a killer. Other goodies - the less weight and portability at 14", the strong and sleek build, and 2 gb ram. (PS : Don't bitch about windows vista ;).) I am sure no deal can beat this :D.

I'll be sure to check this. Thanks. I hope it's HD-ready.

About Vista, don't worry. I'll just tell them to shove it... back into their shelves. :D

[Michael]

For what it's worth, I have been looking for a new laptop as well... An office laptop with my main requirements just being a high resolution display (1400x1050 or greater), Core 2 Duo, and PM965 Chipset. These three are what I believe I narrowed it down to: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Productcompare.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=2030260032+1040006722&StoreType=7&CompareItemList=N82E16834220162%2cN82E16834146333% 2cN82E16834220285&bop=And

[niniendowarrior]

Thanks for your thoughts Michael. Just in case you get any of them, please post your thoughts on them. It will definitely help in my selection.

[Michael]

I'll probably be ordering one later this month or early next month, and will be sure to post my thoughts (and probably a review and benchmarks :)).

[niniendowarrior]

Just talked to my friend supplier and it seems like Acer and Compaq are my choices. Not a lot then. Now I think I need help more than ever.

[niniendowarrior]

Update.

Prowling through the ACER line up. I think this is my only option on Acer... what do you guys think?

Acer Aspire 5920G
http://www.acer.com.ph/notebook.php?pkey=76

I'll try to talk them into dropping Vista. hehehe.

[Svartalf]

Update.

Prowling through the ACER line up. I think this is my only option on Acer... what do you guys think?

Acer Aspire 5920G
http://www.acer.com.ph/notebook.php?pkey=76



That's very similar in nature to my HP Pavilion- in fact it's close enough to it except for the GPU (Mine's a 7600...) that I'd say it's a pretty good deal overall. It'd be a dead winner if you could get it without Fis...er..Vista.


I'll try to talk them into dropping Vista. hehehe.

Best of luck on THAT particular detail. >:-) :D

[Panix]

Hey, I am looking for a laptop, too. I'm not going for something in the OP's price range but for that kind of money, I suggest to consider the Dell Vostro 1400 like the other poster provided. Also, consider the HP dv6000 series (or dv2000 series if you want the smaller 14" screen) as some have the dedicated Nvidia 8400 GS chip.

Btw, could anyone who knows give info on how this chip does in Linux? Is it an easy install? Does the Linux drivers for the 8400M GS work well?

I am considering an HP dv6000 series with that video chip. The wireless is Intel 3945 or 4965 (I forget) but both are supported in Linux AFAIK.

To the OP: beware of the Acers. I've been given mixed reports on them. Some insist they are of low quality and you get what you pay for. There are claims of many returns for repair. Other people claim they are not tier one laptops but do the job. I think for your budget, you can consider the HPs and Dells over the Acers. I think Acers are for the low budget-minded (such as myself :-( ).

The HP I found is not much more than the Acers and few Acers have the Nvidia chip unless you want to pay big bucks or find certain vendors. Btw, I want a laptop with an Intel cpu (preferably core 2 duo).

What's the big deal with Vista? Either dual boot or format the drive. Right?

[Svartalf]

What's the big deal with Vista? Either dual boot or format the drive. Right?

There's four words for those of us whom have had the misfortune of dealing with it...

It...
Is...
A...
Turd...

:D

And you PAID for it, whether you wanted it or not. THAT is the problem.

[niniendowarrior]

That's very similar in nature to my HP Pavilion- in fact it's close enough to it except for the GPU (Mine's a 7600...) that I'd say it's a pretty good deal overall. It'd be a dead winner if you could get it without Fis...er..Vista.

Do you think it's going to be Linux friendly? But I feel like I'll succumb to this... and my bank account will bleed red.


Best of luck on THAT particular detail. >:-) :D

Aha... even if I am forced to buy it, I won't use it, just like Dave M. :D

[niniendowarrior]

There's four words for those of us whom have had the misfortune of dealing with it...

It...
Is...
A...
Turd...

:D

And you PAID for it, whether you wanted it or not. THAT is the problem.

Bingo. Why buy it when you don't intend to use it? If can save a couple of hundreds from it, the better!

[Svartalf]

Do you think it's going to be Linux friendly? But I feel like I'll succumb to this... and my bank account will bleed red.


My Pavilion dv9235 is COMPLETELY Linux friendly- everything came up except the 3D from the NVidia chip (Duh...) and this is a similar parts layup. The only gotchas I could see is if you need XP. Most of the machines now have been deliberately made impossible or next to it to "downgrade" to XP (and I need a dual boot for verification of function of cross-platform apps I write for people on contract- I need XP...) and if you don't have compatibility mode on the SATA chain, you won't be doing XP at all. There might be a few other gotchas, but unlikely.

If you're leery, you should check into the HP lineup options. They're pretty much a go if you've got no ATI or Broadcom parts in the mix.



Aha... even if I am forced to buy it, I won't use it, just like Dave M. :D

Mine never booted under Vista when it was in my possession- I popped open the DVD drive with a paperclip, popped in Ubuntu Feisty, and proceeded to nuke and pave the whole machine. XP was a slow lurching horror to install. Ubuntu was amazing. It was like the laptop was designed for it. (Even though we KNOW better... ;) )

[niniendowarrior]

My Pavilion dv9235 is COMPLETELY Linux friendly- everything came up except the 3D from the NVidia chip (Duh...) and this is a similar parts layup. The only gotchas I could see is if you need XP. Most of the machines now have been deliberately made impossible or next to it to "downgrade" to XP (and I need a dual boot for verification of function of cross-platform apps I write for people on contract- I need XP...) and if you don't have compatibility mode on the SATA chain, you won't be doing XP at all. There might be a few other gotchas, but unlikely.

If you're leery, you should check into the HP lineup options. They're pretty much a go if you've got no ATI or Broadcom parts in the mix.

I remember my Linux friends telling me to avoid HP/Compaq like the plague. Crappy hardware. I don't plan to have any sort of Windows in this machine. It's one thing I don't really care at all. 100% Linux. I am just taken somewhat aback at the price tag, but most important is that this machine shouldn't make me have to hack anything to get basic stuff to work.

and... I hope it's got some real power.


Mine never booted under Vista when it was in my possession- I popped open the DVD drive with a paperclip, popped in Ubuntu Feisty, and proceeded to nuke and pave the whole machine. XP was a slow lurching horror to install. Ubuntu was amazing. It was like the laptop was designed for it. (Even though we KNOW better... ;) )

So, I suppose this Acer lappie is going to be the choice then.

[niniendowarrior]

Update. It's done. I've plucked down and ordered it. Bit the bullet and yeah, it comes with Vista. Question is, what to do with it.

[Panix]

Which one did you decide on? I think if you're not planning on using Windoze at all but think there might be the odd reason to have it for the .01% of the time you would boot it up, just keep the Vista recovery CD and format the drive. Wipe out your Vista partition and start fresh with an install of whatever distro you ultimately decide on. Many newer Laptops have 100+GB drives so you can fit a few distros on there if you want.

I would dual boot. I'd only be using Vista to fall back on if, for some reason, wireless wasn't working in the distro I was using. I don't think a fresh install of Vista would use much disk space and I wouldn't be *using* it so there would be no software-adding or anything. I'd probably even install it myself rather than take the bloatware that I'd be given from the sellers. I think it would be rather difficult to try and get a laptop discounted by saying you'll buy one without Vista pre-installed.

HP laptops (in particular, dv2000 and dv6000 series) are decent machines and have compatible hardware for the majority of Linux distros. I've read in notebook forums of these laptops being good choices for Linux. They might not be the top level laptops around but for those on a budget, they are reasonable choices. Which laptop did you choose, though?

[niniendowarrior]

Which one did you decide on? I think if you're not planning on using Windoze at all but think there might be the odd reason to have it for the .01% of the time you would boot it up, just keep the Vista recovery CD and format the drive. Wipe out your Vista partition and start fresh with an install of whatever distro you ultimately decide on. Many newer Laptops have 100+GB drives so you can fit a few distros on there if you want.

I would dual boot. I'd only be using Vista to fall back on if, for some reason, wireless wasn't working in the distro I was using. I don't think a fresh install of Vista would use much disk space and I wouldn't be *using* it so there would be no software-adding or anything. I'd probably even install it myself rather than take the bloatware that I'd be given from the sellers. I think it would be rather difficult to try and get a laptop discounted by saying you'll buy one without Vista pre-installed.

HP laptops (in particular, dv2000 and dv6000 series) are decent machines and have compatible hardware for the majority of Linux distros. I've read in notebook forums of these laptops being good choices for Linux. They might not be the top level laptops around but for those on a budget, they are reasonable choices. Which laptop did you choose, though?

I ordered the Acer one. It's a painful price tag but I just decided to bite it. I found some Dells and but they were hugely priced out of my range. They had those selling cheaper Dell laptops at a price of more than $2,500. I cannot afford it even with the allure it comes with Dellbuntu pre-installed. Also 40+ days before arrival is a tad too long. I needed it, pronto.

I am half hoping they give me a legitimate Vista disc, not some hammy recovery disc (which is likely to be what I get). If I get a legitimate copy of Vista, I'll be more than happy to kill Vista and give it to my brothers. But we'll see. I have no real use for Vista, and Ubuntu must use all of my hardware, well at least most of it.

I'm crossing my fingers and hoping it all works out.

About the Acer warning: Yep, I've heard of them and am fully aware of them. But you see, the budget I threw in this forum is kind of like ceiling, which means double 0 bank account. The one I'm buying is a tad bit above that tag, so I at least hope to get some little bit of what I paid for. Some of my folks have dished out similar complaints on Compaq and HP so, oh well. Really would have wanted a Dell, but you can't have it all in life.

Foot note: I have NIC problems with Ubuntu on my Desktop PC and Ubuntu forums has done nothing to help me. So much for Linux people helping fellow Linux users. :mad:

[ivanovic]

Here is my experience with getting a refund for Windows from Lenovo in Germany:
Windows refund (http://www.phoronix.com/forums/showthread.php?p=25443#post25443)

I hope it helps some others to get a refund, too.

[niniendowarrior]

I doubt that'll work though for a Vista recovery disc. That's just me.

[Panix]

I ordered the Acer one.
I am half hoping they give me a legitimate Vista disc, not some hammy recovery disc (which is likely to be what I get). If I get a legitimate copy of Vista, I'll be more than happy to kill Vista and give it to my brothers. But we'll see. I have no real use for Vista, and Ubuntu must use all of my hardware, well at least most of it.

I'm crossing my fingers and hoping it all works out.

Some of my folks have dished out similar complaints on Compaq and HP so, oh well. Really would have wanted a Dell, but you can't have it all in life.

Foot note: I have NIC problems with Ubuntu on my Desktop PC and Ubuntu forums has done nothing to help me. So much for Linux people helping fellow Linux users. :mad:
I have read that the newer HPs are decent machines and the Core 2 Duos (if you choose one) have a lot of hardware that is compatible with Linux. The core issues, wireless and graphics, work out of the box or need only minor tweaking. The machines run cooler than the AMD machines and the quality of the HP Core 2 Duo machines are satisfactory. I have seen older Acers that have the black hardware that almost look like Asus or Compaq laptops. The newer ones are all-white. It's these newer white versions that I think are giving the problems. Something to keep in mind. I was also considering the Acers but I don't like the keyboards much and they do look kinda cheap compared to the HP and Toshibas (that I was comparing to). However, the Core 2 Duo Acers also have compatible hardware (Intel 3945 wireless and Intel GM965/X3100 graphics) so there shouldn't be much variation in Linux compatiblity if you stick with these hardware components. Just keep an eye out for your Acer model and google it in case you are interested at all in reviews or others' experiences. One might want a distro with a more recent kernel, in order to have more potential at a trouble-free install.

[niniendowarrior]

Well, seeing that I've ordered my lappie, there's nothing much I can do about reading more reviews. I can only hope it's a good laptop.

[niniendowarrior]

Okay... I got my laptop. No recovery disc. I'm supposed to create one. I dunno, but I don't know if this is a backup disc or a recovery disc.

Vista is really making me angry... but I'm trying my best to preserve it... because it's something I paid for.

EDIT:

I read somewhere that if I install GRUB on MBR, the Vista boot loader will be overwritten. With that, my recovery discs will be rendered useless. I hate this deal. I pay for Vista, and now I cannot even be sure that I have a copy of WHAT I PAID FOR.

I haven't touched my laptop. Honestly, I don't know what to do to install Ubuntu without killing Acer's recovery facilities. I need help and I need advise.

By the way, Vista is really the stinkers. Doing a back up earlier and burning the recovery disc and Vista chose to lock my mouse and keyboard and then got stuck there. I knew Vista was bad news for my laptop.

[Panix]

I haven't touched my laptop. Honestly, I don't know what to do to install Ubuntu without killing Acer's recovery facilities. I need help and I need advise.

By the way, Vista is really the stinkers. Doing a back up earlier and burning the recovery disc and Vista chose to lock my mouse and keyboard and then got stuck there. I knew Vista was bad news for my laptop.
I wish I knew how as I'd explain it for you. If I was you, I'd go to the Ubuntu forum and read the howto if there is one. Else search the forum for "Vista dual boot" or something similar. Honestly, I think you are screwed if you choose to dual boot one of these laptops pre-installed with Vista. I thought if you had XP OEM, you could just use the product key on the computer and just needed any XP CD to re-install your OS on the laptop. Apparently, this isn't the way with Vista? If so, Mikeysoft is trying to make it ultra-difficult for computer users. If Linux wasn't so impossible when it comes to wireless, I'd do without Windows entirely. I know that is a delicate issue with Linux diehards but for me, I have yet to find a good explanation of how to configure a wireless connection using a manual configuration. It doesn't matter the distro, the distro forum or any amount of googling. It's so complicated. Anyway, sorry to go out on a tangent. I would even consider buying an OEM copy of XP and then I could just re-install anytime I had to after fiddling around with partitions/MBR etc. I'd get the cheapest CD and then I could probably make certain I'd have at least wireless with Windoze.

I hate to give funds to Mikeysoft like that but if I am stuck with only recovery options and there's always a chance to eliminate my Windoze by playing around with Linux, I would want to do away with Windoze. If I could get a wireless, WPA, static IP connection via manual configuration, I would do so.

[niniendowarrior]

I just bit the bullet and repartitioned. I've written this post from Ubuntu in my new laptop. Wireless seemed to work out okay. It wasn't working and while I was looking for an answer, it worked. Weird stuff.

nV drivers from Ubuntu works okay and the sound is okay.

Vista recovery stuff, I have no idea. And the longer it takes me to setup my laptop, the more money I lose. So, I just decided to do it.

[Panix]

I just bit the bullet and repartitioned. I've written this post from Ubuntu in my new laptop. Wireless seemed to work out okay. It wasn't working and while I was looking for an answer, it worked. Weird stuff.

nV drivers from Ubuntu works okay and the sound is okay.

Vista recovery stuff, I have no idea. And the longer it takes me to setup my laptop, the more money I lose. So, I just decided to do it.
Can you boot into Vista (is it single boot to Ubuntu or dual boot?)? Are you using the Grub bootloader? I'm curious since I've been looking at laptops preconfigured with Vista and would probably partition for a distro.

[yoshi314]

acer extensa 5220 - this is an out-of-the-box linux friendly laptop. everything "just works" there.

i'm looking for something more modern than that model right now.

[niniendowarrior]

Can you boot into Vista (is it single boot to Ubuntu or dual boot?)? Are you using the Grub bootloader? I'm curious since I've been looking at laptops preconfigured with Vista and would probably partition for a distro.

It's a dual boot Vista/Ubuntu. I will say that Windows Vista's repartitioning tool is good. It does make installing Linux a bit easier. Unfortunately, it puts some fairly restrictive repartitioning, making Vista hold at least 40 GB despite me needing at least 10 GB from it.

I can also boot the Vista Recovery partition through GRUB. Strange.

I also need a gnome based wifi tool that would allow me to search and connect to APs. Right now, I'm manually configuring it.

I also want to get the webcam working. Acer Crystal Eye. So far, no luck.

[yoshi314]

I also want to get the webcam working. Acer Crystal Eye. So far, no luck.this webcam is a hellish device. no support for win2k, plus you have to dig around for winxp driver [since it mostly comes with those "vista friendly" laptops].

i didn't have time nor opportunity to test it under linux - i was configuring acer aspire 5920 for a friend of mine.

[Kano]

If you want to get an usb device working, show the lsusb line of it. Then you can google something.

[niniendowarrior]

If you want to get an usb device working, show the lsusb line of it. Then you can google something.

What USB device?

The webcam is built-in the laptop. The drivers gutsy loads detects the hardware. I don't have anything to test it though.

[Kano]

Install camorama. lsusb will list it.

[niniendowarrior]

I'll install that. Funny that I installed Skype and it can use my web cam right away.

Now I need:
1. application for wireless connecting. (sometimes Ubuntu connects, sometimes, not.)
2. microphone isn't working.

edit:
just installed camorama. Can't seem to use my camera device. /dev/video0

Edit:
microphone is working now. Wireless acts a bit strange but I hope it's a one time isolated thing.

More edits:
The closest webcam I got working is xawtv. It couldn't grab anything at all from the webcam, but it at least got it to turn on (LED of the webcam). It also managed to mess with the video driver settings that made the webcam video in skype too bright. Took me awhile to realize that and fixed it. Maybe I should uninstall it before it delivers further setting damage.

[Panix]

I also need a gnome based wifi tool that would allow me to search and connect to APs. Right now, I'm manually configuring it.

I also want to get the webcam working. Acer Crystal Eye. So far, no luck.
I prefer using a manual configuration but I'm having lots of problems figuring it out.

If you want to use a WiFi GUI, try Wicd. It seems to be the fav for Linux. I would stay clear of Network Manager. Wicd is probably in the repositories by now. I've been told it's easy to install and one can even download it via Windows and then install it in Linux.

[niniendowarrior]

I prefer using a manual configuration but I'm having lots of problems figuring it out.

If you want to use a WiFi GUI, try Wicd. It seems to be the fav for Linux. I would stay clear of Network Manager. Wicd is probably in the repositories by now. I've been told it's easy to install and one can even download it via Windows and then install it in Linux.

I'll check it out. For wifi, the biggest problem is from the driver. Once you get the correct driver running, that's half of the battle already.

After that, it's about working with iwconfig and iwlist to configure it. If you can use Network Manager, it's a good start though I'm still unsure how much it did help me get it working.

[Svartalf]

What USB device?

The webcam is built-in the laptop. The drivers gutsy loads detects the hardware. I don't have anything to test it though.

Kano made a good suggestion. If you don't want to do that, it'll show up in sane as device in the "scanners" list if Linux supports it (Not that you can USE it as a scanner via XSane...) and you can use Ekiga to check cam function.

[Svartalf]

I prefer using a manual configuration but I'm having lots of problems figuring it out.

If you want to use a WiFi GUI, try Wicd. It seems to be the fav for Linux. I would stay clear of Network Manager. Wicd is probably in the repositories by now. I've been told it's easy to install and one can even download it via Windows and then install it in Linux.

Why would you suggest to stay away from Network Manager?

[niniendowarrior]

Kano made a good suggestion. If you don't want to do that, it'll show up in sane as device in the "scanners" list if Linux supports it (Not that you can USE it as a scanner via XSane...) and you can use Ekiga to check cam function.

Well, Skype can use it so as of now that'll do. Would have been neat to be able to take pictures using it, but seems like support is scarce. I need a camera app that works with v4l2, and so far, the apps I tried that were supposedly support v4l2 haven't been successful in using it.

[Panix]

I'm looking for a laptop that's compatible with Linux (again). I was hoping to obtain a few suggestions/opinions/ideas.

I'm debating about:
1) 13.3 v.s. 14.1 screen
2) Intel graphics v.s. Nvidia dedicated graphics (probably 8400M)
3) which brand and configuration

I suspect if I go for Intel Core 2 Duo cpu, Intel wireless and the graphics is a matter of preference (but, Intel graphics is easier to configure, I should be okay? Using Ubuntu?

For brands, I'm considering Dell, Lenovo Thinkpad T61, Asus and possibly, HP. I need to buy from a store (it's okay if I can order online but needs to be from a store) and budget is under 2K.

Is it better to get 2GB of RAM, best/fastest cpu I can afford, Intel wireless and either GPU card?

[niniendowarrior]

By going to the intel graphics route, you open up a couple of laptop options for you. Generally they should be good, unless you want graphics intensive stuff but are easy on the budget. You'll find a lot of options. I don't have a list ready though but you can scour this thread because a number of models were thrown in for discussion.

The one real weak point I have figured in my laptop here is wifi operability is dodgy. It's luck-based when I am able to detect my own hot spot and I extremely hate that. Sometimes when I reboot, it cannot find it anymore and sometimes it will. At times, I'll boot to Vista to connect to the wifi and it works out great.

My DVD rom drive also on Acer Aspire 5920g seems to be acting up too as I cannot seem to burn stuff. Other than that, I love my laptop.

[deanjo]

I'm looking for a laptop that's compatible with Linux (again). I was hoping to obtain a few suggestions/opinions/ideas.

I'm debating about:
1) 13.3 v.s. 14.1 screen
2) Intel graphics v.s. Nvidia dedicated graphics (probably 8400M)
3) which brand and configuration

I suspect if I go for Intel Core 2 Duo cpu, Intel wireless and the graphics is a matter of preference (but, Intel graphics is easier to configure, I should be okay? Using Ubuntu?

For brands, I'm considering Dell, Lenovo Thinkpad T61, Asus and possibly, HP. I need to buy from a store (it's okay if I can order online but needs to be from a store) and budget is under 2K.

Is it better to get 2GB of RAM, best/fastest cpu I can afford, Intel wireless and either GPU card?

http://store.apple.com/us/configure/MB133LL/A?mco=NzUyMzc2

[jeffro-tull]

I'd rather have that little bit extra in 3D, which is why I'm specifically after nVidia boards.

Keep the suggestions coming, because I'm going to have to buy one fairly soon.

About Thinkpads, at first I was thinking of getting R61, until I found out it was a pain to install Linux. Dang Lenovo!

For what it's worth, I've got a Lenovo Thinkpad T60 model 2007, and one of my close friends has a Thinkpad R61.

The only issue we've both had is with the Intel PRO/Wireless 3945 ABG chipset. I say "issue" and not "problem" because, depending on your familiarity with the tools at hand, it's easy to fix: in our collective experience, the ipw3945 driver is trash. Most distros ship with (or can easily attain) the microcode needed for the iwlwifi driver. I know Suse 10.3 and newer ship with both and its easy to switch between the two, though it seems best to just plain get rid of ipw* to make sure it doesn't much things up.

Other than that, mine has an ATI X1300 chipset, which should speak for itself. My buddy was smart enough to go Intel.

[hdas]

I have said this earlier in this thread, but even at this time, one just cannot beat the dell vostro 1400. Its small and compact and light enough to be portable. Although 14", its form factor is similar to 13.3". Has Nvidia 8400m gs graphics and Intel core2duo. 2 gb of ram and 160gb hard drive. Add an 85Whr battery and even with discrete graphics it lasts a whopping 6+ hrs in linux (they claim 7hrs). Everything works in Linux - even the inbuilt webcam and microphone and bluetooth (and even the modem if anyone cares :o). The wireless, though broadcom, is now well supported by b43 driver (and ndiswrapper if need be), and might be swappable with a ipw4965agn. All this within 800 usd (850 with ipw4965) is a dream deal. I must say, I have been very happy ever since I bought it late last year. Both for work and play. Everything works as it should in Linux :).

[niniendowarrior]

I was close to gettin the Vostro, but those things are damn expensive here. I will say, it does look like a great laptop.

[Kano]

If you buy that thing, choose the 1490 WLAN, that can work with native Linux drivers. 1390 (default) currently needs ndiswrapper.

[hdas]

Hmm, I do have the standard dell wireless 1390 on my vostro (bcm4311 - 14e4:4311), and it works nice for me with b43. Even at airports :). Ndiswrapper works great too and it was way more than just life-saver till kernel 2.6.22.

[Panix]

I have said this earlier in this thread, but even at this time, one just cannot beat the dell vostro 1400. Its small and compact and light enough to be portable. Although 14", its form factor is similar to 13.3". Has Nvidia 8400m gs graphics and Intel core2duo. 2 gb of ram and 160gb hard drive. Add an 85Whr battery and even with discrete graphics it lasts a whopping 6+ hrs in linux (they claim 7hrs). Everything works in Linux - even the inbuilt webcam and microphone and bluetooth (and even the modem if anyone cares :o). The wireless, though broadcom, is now well supported by b43 driver (and ndiswrapper if need be), and might be swappable with a ipw4965agn. All this within 800 usd (850 with ipw4965) is a dream deal. I must say, I have been very happy ever since I bought it late last year. Both for work and play. Everything works as it should in Linux :).
I like the Vostro 1400 but it doesn't have DVI or HDMI. I might want to hook it up to my LCD monitor (if I'm at home) sometimes. Still, I am considering it but the Dells are somewhat expensive as well. My ideal laptops are 1) LG P300 (can't find; expensive) and 2) Dell XPS M1330 and the Dell Vostro 1400 would be ideal if it had a DVI port.

I have read the Intel wirless 4965agn is supported out of the box in Linux so I want a laptop that has that wireless card.

The other laptop I'm considering is the Lenovo Thinkpad T61 and although the Nvidia card in that chip is not very common, supposedly, it's supported in Linux? How well, that is the question. I read it's similar to the Nvidia 8400M GS (?) but I'm not sure to what degree, a user/owner would have issues. For most laptops (Dell, for e.g.), it's only a $100 upgrade from Intel integrated graphics to the Nvidia dedicated graphics so that seems to be worth it. Doesn't it?

Anyway, thanks for the suggestions.

[Aradreth]

I like the Vostro 1400 but it doesn't have DVI or HDMI. I might want to hook it up to my LCD monitor (if I'm at home) sometimes. Still, I am considering it but the Dells are somewhat expensive as well. My ideal laptops are 1) LG P300 (can't find; expensive) and 2) Dell XPS M1330 and the Dell Vostro 1400 would be ideal if it had a DVI port.

I have read the Intel wirless 4965agn is supported out of the box in Linux so I want a laptop that has that wireless card.

The other laptop I'm considering is the Lenovo Thinkpad T61 and although the Nvidia card in that chip is not very common, supposedly, it's supported in Linux? How well, that is the question. I read it's similar to the Nvidia 8400M GS (?) but I'm not sure to what degree, a user/owner would have issues. For most laptops (Dell, for e.g.), it's only a $100 upgrade from Intel integrated graphics to the Nvidia dedicated graphics so that seems to be worth it. Doesn't it?

Anyway, thanks for the suggestions.
Honestly you can't got wrong with a Thinkpad those things are awesome. As for the nvidia VS intel I'd probably grab the intel one because it has open source drivers, it's cheaper in the case of the T61 and 2D graphics should actually work at a decent speed. Nvidia's series 8 gfx cards suck with 2D and the cards you are looking at aren't powerful enough for intense 3D graphics so that shouldnt really effect your choice.

For the thinkpad with the nvidia card phoronix did a review by the way ;) http://www.phoronix.com/scan.php?page=article&item=nvidia_140m&num=1

[val-gaav]

http://www.vnunet.com/vnunet/news/2218172/acer-pushes-linux-hard

http://osnews.com/story/19827/Acer_Bets_Big_on_Linux

I would wait a bit and see if this is going to be true...

[Aradreth]

http://www.vnunet.com/vnunet/news/2218172/acer-pushes-linux-hard

http://osnews.com/story/19827/Acer_Bets_Big_on_Linux

I would wait a bit and see if this is going to be true...
Whilst good news if true I don't think it's worth the wait. Acer's laptops are fine if you need something cheap but if you want something a bit better I'd go with Dell or Lenovo as both offer linux pre-installed.

Personally ThinkPads > * as they could be run over by a tank and still work fine.

[Telkwa]

I bought an Acer 5920. Not the G, with nvidia graphics, just plain old Centrino. Some things were glitchy in 7.10, such as only one of the chassis speakers worked. Installed 8.04 and problems have gone away. Don't care about the webcam so haven't tried.

I'm surprised to hear the OP say that wireless is spotty. The 4965 wireless card in this Acer works great. Have connected to numerous wi-fi hotspots and several protected wireless networks without a problem.

I'm dual-booting Vista. Wireless connects are better, faster, and less finicky in Ubuntu.

Sometimes Ubuntu just makes me smile. Tried for two days (I'm not a networking whiz) to connect to my father's wireless HP printer from Vista. Could see the printer and even check ink levels but couldn't add it to the network. It took about five minutes to find the printer and print a test page from Ubuntu, using HPLIP application.

I'd say that going with a Centrino notebook is a very big first step. Any non-Intel wireless card can be troublesome. Even if you get them working, kernel updates can break them again as happened just two weeks ago.

Sure, I'd rather have a Thinkpad. The Acer cost me $650 six months ago. Have seen better deals since. A comparable TP woulda been roughly - what - at least a thousand bucks?

[xav1r]

Whilst good news if true I don't think it's worth the wait. Acer's laptops are fine if you need something cheap but if you want something a bit better I'd go with Dell or Lenovo as both offer linux pre-installed.

Personally ThinkPads > * as they could be run over by a tank and still work fine.

And they weigh like 2 tons too. :D

[niniendowarrior]

I'm surprised to hear the OP say that wireless is spotty. The 4965 wireless card in this Acer works great. Have connected to numerous wi-fi hotspots and several protected wireless networks without a problem.

I'm dual-booting Vista. Wireless connects are better, faster, and less finicky in Ubuntu.


I can connect to open wi-fi hotspots and I think that's fine... sometimes on my WEP protected hotspot (don't harp on me about WEP, I know why I picked it) though it just simply cannot find the hotspot and says there are no DHCP offers. Pisses me off.

I use Vista and Ubuntu and Vista has a much better time looking for hotspots.

[Panix]

Update: Lenovo and Dell are definitely choices to me. So, that's good news.

So, out of these, which one?:
Dell XPS M1330
Dell Vostro 1400
Lenovo Thinkpad T61

Is there any reason to choose the Vostro over the Thinkpad if it's between two 14" screens?

I'd probably go with the Intel grahpics. I'm now looking at the negatives regarding the choices. The Dell XPS laptop is most expensive but the Thinkpad supposedly has some flaws with its screen (one is that it is dim). I would be watching DVDs so I'm wondering how that effects the comparison. I'd like to go with the Dell LED screen but that increases the price quite considerably. The Dell has quality issues but are they serious enough to take the Thinkpad over it?

All these are adquate for Linux but which one and why? I want a light and think laptop but all the above are good for portability. Which one?!? It's hard to decide! ;-)

[endymion]

I've got a Dell Vostro 1400 and I love it. I've got the nvidia 8400gs upgrade and the 1440x900 screen, and I've been running Fedora 8 and 9 on it and it runs great. I dual boot with windows XP for certain architecture apps, but I do most of my gaming under linux with the nvidia driver. The only issue with installation is making sure you don't wipe out Dell's diagnostic partition and the media direct crap (if you want it).

I've got the extended battery and I can get about 5 hours of it. When I ordered mine it was only 40 bucks to get the extended battery + the standard one vs a 20 dollar upgrade to just the extended battery, so I've got the standard and extended batteries and between the two of them I can get a little over 8 hours out of it.

My other recommendation if you go with the vostro is to make sure to get one of the intel wireless cards...I got the 4965 card and it works really well too.

(Oh, and make sure you go through Dell's small business site...I got 2 gigs of ram and a 250gb harddrive for a fraction of what it would have cost to upgrade to those specs under the regular users site.

I'd be glad to answer any questions about the vostro if you still have any. Good luck picking!

[Aradreth]

Update: Lenovo and Dell are definitely choices to me. So, that's good news.

So, out of these, which one?:
Dell XPS M1330
Dell Vostro 1400
Lenovo Thinkpad T61

Is there any reason to choose the Vostro over the Thinkpad if it's between two 14" screens?

I'd probably go with the Intel grahpics. I'm now looking at the negatives regarding the choices. The Dell XPS laptop is most expensive but the Thinkpad supposedly has some flaws with its screen (one is that it is dim). I would be watching DVDs so I'm wondering how that effects the comparison. I'd like to go with the Dell LED screen but that increases the price quite considerably. The Dell has quality issues but are they serious enough to take the Thinkpad over it?

All these are adquate for Linux but which one and why? I want a light and think laptop but all the above are good for portability. Which one?!? It's hard to decide! ;-)
I think you'll find that you can't really go wrong with any of those choices. ;)