You might consider a linux-only vendor such as <a href="http://www.system76.com/index.php?cPath=28">System76</a>. 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. <div>
<br></div><div>-Carl<br><br><div class="gmail_quote">On Mon, Apr 11, 2011 at 8:10 AM, Geo. Perry <span dir="ltr"><<a href="mailto:geoperry@gmail.com">geoperry@gmail.com</a>></span> wrote:<br><blockquote class="gmail_quote" style="margin:0 0 0 .8ex;border-left:1px #ccc solid;padding-left:1ex;">
<div class="im">On Sun, Apr 10, 2011 at 11:23 PM, Kevin Schultz <<a href="mailto:schultkl@ieee.org">schultkl@ieee.org</a>> wrote:<br>
> So...any recent experience purchasing a laptop to run Linux? ;o)<br>
</div>[...]<br>
<br>
<a href="http://www.ubuntu.com/certification/" target="_blank">http://www.ubuntu.com/certification/</a> <-- if it runs ubuntu, it'll<br>
likely run others<br>
<br>
... when working within a budget & other constraints, I recommend<br>
finding a laptop you like, and then checking against lists of<br>
linux-friendly hardware<br>
( <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Softmodem" target="_blank">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Softmodem</a> <-- when I began using linux,<br>
the "winmodem" was a thorn in the paw of open-sourcery).<br>
<br>
Also, approach dealers with candor: "I intend to swap-in a larger hd,<br>
& install linux onto it; if I succeed, I'll keep the laptop, otherwise<br>
I'll return it for a refund."<br>
... I ran this spiel at the self-certified Best Buy: "Using any os<br>
other than 'windows' voids your warranty."<br>
... sales-rep at Staples offered me an hearty handshake & a laptop on<br>
which I'm composing this very reply.<br>
<br>
Consider the lugod-community as holding an inventory of user-certified laptops<br>
... I'm looking for one or two laptops to give to family, and my first<br>
try will be at an upcoming meeting<br>
... any one looking to replace an oldie-but-goodie might look for the<br>
oldie-but-ahhh... well, I'll be looking for you. -g<br>
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</blockquote></div><br><br clear="all"><br>-- <br>Carl Boettiger<br>UC Davis<br><a href="http://www.carlboettiger.info/" target="_blank">http://www.carlboettiger.info/</a><br><br>
</div>