Vostro 1500 and Ubuntu Linux?

Question

Just ordered a Vostro 1500 Performance Package. I chose an XP Pro install and the Intel wireless card. The only other options appeared to be the Broadcom cards wher lots of Ubuntu users ahve reported difficulty in getting them to work. Should the Intel card prove to be easier. Is the software that Dell uses to insall Ubuntu the same as the standard discs? If not, Is it possible to get the Dell/Ubuntu software a la carte? :^)

Digitalmag · Answer

I bought a Vostro 1000 on a special promotion about a month ago. I was looking to get a new inexpensive machine, just so I could play with ubuntu. My machine is not too special and it has the Broadcom wireless card as well and the regular broadcam wired card. My machine came with XP home, but I really didn't care because I was hoping to end up with a Microsoft free computer.

I expected to have a bit of a challenge but to be honest the Ubuntu install was easier than the first versions of Windows XP or even '95. After figuring out the various partion requirements, the install went smoothly. Both the Broadcom wireless and the ATI card in the Vostro have restricted drivers now and once they where installed they worked very well. I had to load up a bunch of plugins for Firefox and Wine (windows emulator) doesn't seem to like network drives. The only issues that I currntly have is running DVD movies (CCD ecryption issues) and figuring out the current setting for the VPN login on the srver at work.

The machine is fast, uses only 128meg of the 1 gig ram and I was even able to adjust partition sizes after the operating system had been installed.

In short, I love my new computer and I prefer to use it over my older XP pro desktop. I don't think you will have any major issues with your install, but I suspect that your support from Dell will not be very easy should your hardware break. From what I can tell the Vostros appear to be a bit better built than the Inspirons; even thought they are in the same basic case. The all black color scheme fitting in well with counter culture feel of Ubuntu as well.

Good luck with the set-up.

ebozzz · Answer

Thanks for the reply! I have had my Vostro for a couple of months now and all is well. My first task after receiving it was to get Ubuntu Studio installed. That task was completed without a hitch. 40 GB is dedicated to XP and 120 GB for Ubuntu. I now have a high-quality mobile DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) to take to gigs and rehearsals. It has definitely made my life a lot easier!

Message Edited by ebozzz on 12-24-2007 10:12 PM

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Vostro 1500 and Ubuntu Linux?

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