[vox] Linux Laptop Purchase - Soliciting Suggestions

[Carl Boettiger]

You might consider a linux-only vendor such as
System76<http://www.system76.com/index.php?cPath=28>.
 While it may be less difficult getting linux-compatible hardware from other
vendors, I've simply found working with a smaller vendor much more pleasant
if anything ever goes wrong. It's nice to be able to call or email them and
speak to the (same) expert for getting a replacement or upgraded part or
just to get advice, and never be on hold or be told to just "restart the
computer" or "reinstall the os."  That said, you can probably
get comparable hardware for less from a larger vendor, particularly if the
service aspect doesn't matter to you.

-Carl

On Mon, Apr 11, 2011 at 8:10 AM, Geo. Perry <geoperry at gmail.com> wrote:

> On Sun, Apr 10, 2011 at 11:23 PM, Kevin Schultz <schultkl at ieee.org> wrote:
> > So...any recent experience purchasing a laptop to run Linux? ;o)
> [...]
>
> http://www.ubuntu.com/certification/ <-- if it runs ubuntu, it'll
> likely run others
>
> ... when working within a budget & other constraints, I recommend
> finding a laptop you like, and then checking against lists of
> linux-friendly hardware
> ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Softmodem <-- when I began using linux,
> the "winmodem" was a thorn in the paw of open-sourcery).
>
> Also, approach dealers with candor: "I intend to swap-in a larger hd,
> & install linux onto it; if I succeed, I'll keep the laptop, otherwise
> I'll return it for a refund."
> ... I ran this spiel at the self-certified Best Buy: "Using any os
> other than 'windows' voids your warranty."
> ... sales-rep at Staples offered me an hearty handshake & a laptop on
> which I'm composing this very reply.
>
> Consider the lugod-community as holding an inventory of user-certified
> laptops
> ... I'm looking for one or two laptops to give to family, and my first
> try will be at an upcoming meeting
> ... any one looking to replace an oldie-but-goodie might look for the
> oldie-but-ahhh... well, I'll be looking for you. -g
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>



-- 
Carl Boettiger
UC Davis
http://www.carlboettiger.info/
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