Jeffrey Martin wrote:
What should I avoid when looking for a linux compatible laptop? Any other tips for being on the road with linux? Thank You. -Jeff
I would start here:
and pay particular attention here:
http://tuxmobil.org/apm_linux.html
Then I would use (gasp) Windows XP anyway, perhaps in a dual-boot environment.
Will you be driving in 48 states? It is my experience that Microsoft Streets and Trips is an indispensable tool when traveling, as directions are often so bogus in the world of 18 wheel trucking that they should always be rechecked. This has saved me many times from driving 77 feet of truck into places it simply did not belong in, or just saved me from making a possibly disastrous wrong turn! Unfortunately, I know of no successful attempts to run this program in Linux. I look forward to being wrong about that, so if anyone knows how ...
Outdoor wireless in truck stops is another issue. It is a different animal at each truck stop ... different providers and equipment, different atmospheric and environmental factors (wet leaves on trees can really scatter a signal) ... sometimes you cannot find an open parking place with a clear view of the antennae. Remember, the signal will not penetrate the metal on your semi. That, of course, has little to do with your choice of OS. ANYWAY, I think Linux wireless drivers and signal detection tools need a little more work, and in time, soon I hope, that will be a non-factor in my choice of an OS for travel.
I continue to use XP less and less, but I cannot lose functionality while traveling. When Linux can do everything on a laptop or desktop that XP can, and it will happen, then I will drop XP in a New York second ... or is it a New York minute?
I use Linux as much as possible and XP as little as possible, because (are you reading this Jim H.?) Open Source has better vibes than XP. The passion and dedication of the Linux, GNU/Linux, Open Source ... whatever you care to call it ... community has tremendous appeal. The short but highly eventful history of the movement is inspiring. I therefore choose to support it in my own small way, and look forward to a complete transition from the realm of intrusive EULAs and software that tries to spy on me (like Windows Media Player). I do value freedom ... free speech AND free beer. And I don't really mind paying a fair price for the beer if it is drinkable.
So why do I use Windows at all? I'm either a pragmatist or a whore ... perhaps a pragmatic whore ;-)
I'll fully repent when it is convenient to do so.
Safe travels, and thanks for putting up with my $0.02!
Rick