[COLUG] looking for some basic introductory information on linux

[R P Herrold]

On Fri, 19 Jan 2007, Larry W. Virden wrote:

> I have a son trying to build his first linux system. He has an old
> gateway desktop computer with 128 meg of memory in it. When he tries
> to install ubuntu, it doesn't make it through. He suspects there
> isn't enough memory in the machine for it to be able to install.

I regularly install CentOS, which is the community rebuild of 
RHEL, in 96M of ram; I run at one client site on a cast off 
Gateway 2000 (233MHz and 128M ram); with X no less.  It's not 
particularly pleasant compared to what I am used to but it 
works.  TUI is fine of course, howeer -- but a starting user 
wants the 'sizzle' -- color, sound, etc.

> Also, once he gets linux onto the desktop, what are some
> recommendations for low cost internet, so he can get online and get
> updated applications, send email, etc.?

Getting back to that pleasant thing, I actually would prefer 
that a new user just being introduced to Linux NOT run on a 
castoff; run Windows instead on that old beater -, and save 
for a little bit to cut him over to a pleasant Linux 
environment. a New Dell unit with a hot processor, a gig of 
ram, and the rest may be had for under $350; it can tee into 
the household Roadrunner connection (DSL, whatever);  again, 
dialup will be a poorer experience no matter how you slice it.

-- Russ Herrold