My Ubuntu Linux Project

Exploratory Phase

My Apple Mac died recently after almost five years of dedicated service. I have a MacBook so there is no need to rush into buying a new desktop. I have a PC that I think may be good for Ubuntu, it's about four years old.

Hardware

The online documentation seems to gloss over hardware requirements. Will this hardware configuration handle Ubuntu or is Xubuntu a better choice due to its age?

System

• eMachines model T2742
• Intel Celeron 2.7 GHz processor
• 256 MB DDR RAM PC2700 (1 slot open) ¹
• Monitor: Envision 17" CRT, model EN-775e ²
• 40 GB hard drive
• CD-RW write 48x max.
• DVD, read 16x max.
• Floppy drive (but I don't need to use it)
• Motherboard D845GVSR
• Ethernet port, Intel Pro 10/100 LAN
• PCI: 2 slots open
• 6 USB ports (v 1.0 not 2.0, I think)
• Audio (mini jacks for headphones and microphone) & SVGA on motherboard
• Windows XP Home Edition v 2002 SP2

¹ 256 MB RAM seems to be the minimum for Ubuntu, would more RAM be a wise investment?
² I also have an old NEC MultiSync XE15 lying around waiting to be of use for something.

Wifi Card?

Any recommendations for a wireless ethernet card?

The documentation seems to say that a wifi card can be tricky with Ubuntu and provides a long list of compatible cards. Are any better than the others? Or do I just need to make sure the one I get is Linux compatable?

Scanner

The documentation doesn't seem to mention scanners. This is not a deal breaker for me but it would be nice to have. My scanner is a Canon LiDE 20, is there a driver for it? Will a general TWAIN driver work?

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Software

The online documentation covers most software questions that I have, but I could use some feedback in a few areas.

Web / Internet

I know Ubuntu includes the Firefox web browser but does it work well with Netvibes and Newsvine? I use Netvibes extensively (RSS feeds, podcasts, calendar) so this is important. I also use Newsvine a lot, writing and submitting articles as well as seeding frequently.

* Audio *

This is important to me. I really like listening to podcasts and streaming internet radio. Is there a good podcast player/organizer for Ubuntu? How about an app to create podcasts? A few of the internet radio streams that I would like to listen to are Radio Paradise and Virgin Radio.

Does Songbird work well in Ubuntu? Songbird looks so good that I'm thinking of trying it out on my MacBook.

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Ubuntu Project Update

I've decided on a wifi card and 512MB more memory.
More info down in the comments:Ubuntu Project Update (Comment #9).

My next Article update will be in about one week.

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Future Phases

I won't leave you hanging, I'll let you know how things progress. Expect an update in a week or so, I need to do some more research and get a Wifi card.

Installation Phase

Was it easy to install? How long did it take? I hope to answer these questions.

Trial Phase

How does Ubuntu compare with other more mainstream operating systems? Can I use it for my everyday computing needs? After I use Ubuntu for a week or two then I'll post a report.

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