Posted: 3/13/2007 12:00:54 PM EDT
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I'm about to install ubuntu on my laptop. The HDD died, i replaced it, and I don't have the OEM OS disk. (Yes, it's a dell...) I figure since it's a secondary computer, this is a great time to learn Linux the hard way. I've searched here, read the threads on Linux....and don't know a bit more than I did when I started. I downloaded ubuntu, burned it to a CD, and I'm headed home to install it. I'll bring the laptop back here (close to an internet connection on another ocmputer) later. How painful is this going to be? |
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Well, that depends... If your machine is a couple of years old, no problem. If it's "bleeding edge" or way obsolete, the drivers may not be found. In that case, you'd have to tweak settings. Otherwise, you should be fine. I am playing with OpenSUSE 10.2 LiveDVD at this time, wondering if I should dump the Windows XP Pro and bundled software I got with this Sony Vaio. I may just set it up as a dual-booter, if I can figure out if it will not mess up the proprietary disk image partition they stored the factory configuration on. As that's my only recovery media, I don't want to lose it. I believe you'll be OK. Just don't shoot me if I'm wrong... 
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Not very painfull , If you downloaded the latest version it will be a live cd so you will know what works and what does not and if everything is ok the click the installer on the desktop. |
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It is easier than any crapware bloatcode from Microsoft. It will work, even with wireless although you will have to know the proper settings. It auto-recognized the Intel Proset 2200 802.11 card in my Dell even though this isn't a recommended wireless for the laptop (I used Windoze drivers from Intel, not Dell for windoze functionality). I now have a Ubuntu hard drive (20 GB, nothing fancy) and my Windoze 80 GB. One screw to switch it out. |
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You could try this: sourceforge.net/projects/synce/ Looks like it's a little stale though. If Ubuntu doesn't have a prebuilt package you get your first lesson in the joys of learning to install software on Linux.
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I'll try that. I see that this is going to be a 'learning experience'.... 
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