[GRLUG] shopping for linux-compatible hardware

[John J. Foerch]

On Sun, Aug 09, 2009 at 10:22:51PM -0400, Adam Tauno Williams wrote:
> > > > including 3D support which, as I understand, means I should be looking
> > > > for an Intel chipset.  Thoughts?
> > > I'd go with an Nvidia card,  but an Intel GMA965/x3100 should work well.
> > > <http://intellinuxgraphics.org/user.html>
> > I'm looking at an Ubuntu system from System76 now.  Going with a
> > prebuilt linux system will take the hassle out of checking every part
> > for compatibility.  The video is an onboard Intel x3100... I'll
> > doublecheck that the board has an expansion slot for an addon graphics
> > card, should I ever need to switch.
> > Am I thinking clearly here?  :)
> 
> Seems reasonable to me;  looking at their prices and specs you certainly
> couldn't build a comparable system for less [or much less, not enough to
> be worth the hassle].


  In the end, I decided to buy parts and build it myself.  Building a
Intel Core 2 Duo 2.93 GHz machine on an Asus micro-ATX board with
onboard Intel video, sound, and network.  4GB DDR2-800 Corsair memory,
and a 640GB Western Digital hard drive.  I did a ton of research on
the relevant chipsets, and I think I am mostly linux-safe, though I am
taking a little bit of a risk, as compatibility information is hard to
find, especially with new equipment.  I will be sure to post my
experience.  I still have to buy a case and a DVDR, but I expect the
total bill to be in the neighborhood of $500.  Wish me luck!

-- 
John Foerch