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March 2nd, 2007 10:00
linux on new Inspiron 640M
Hi all! I need to install linux (probably mandiva 2006 or 07) on a new Inspiron 640M. Which is the best way to do it? How many partitions should I expect on the new HD? Can I safely resize Vista partition with the tool of the distro? A last issue: are there some problem for linux on dell laptops? Thank taphino
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HedgeMage
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March 27th, 2007 02:00
Either the Mandriva or the Ubuntu installer can usually resize a Windows partition without problems (though I've not tried Mandriva with anything later than XP).
The number of partitions is really up to you. At a bare minimum, you need three: a Windows partition, a Linux partition, and a Linux Swap partition. I tend to advise new Linux users to also put Linux's /home directory on its own partition. This saves you a LOT of trouble if you change distros, or if you upgrade Mandriva, which pretty much requires a full re-install to get the next version. The /home directory is where all user data is stored -- so by making it a separate directory, you allow yourself to re-install, upgrade, or change Linux distributions without destroying all of your personal files.
I've been successful with Linux on a number of laptops, including two Dells, though I haven't put Mandriva/Mandrake on a laptop in a few years.
I'm about to order an Inspiron 640M -- that's why I noticed your post -- so feel free to watch my blog for any problems/solutions I work through along the way, or contact me using the contact form there.
HedgeMage
Message Edited by HedgeMage on 03-26-2007 10:56 PM