Nice computer, runs linux with a lot of work
Sorry about the typo, it should be 'Aspire' but I didn't notice it until too late.We got this machine at a discount because Vista wouldn't boot. No problem, because the intent was to put linux on it and use it for a traveling machine. We tried a number of linux distributions including running from live CDs, ultimately settling on slackware -- the only one that would start and run reliably. The wifi chipset is considered to be linux friendly, but it required a LOT of tinkering over a week to get it running. Still haven't got sound working, but probably will sooner or later. Only important if we want to watch movies on the road, an unlikely happenstance.It has a glossy screen, which is highly undesirable if you plan on using it outside. Difficult to find matte screens, though, so this is no worse than any other laptop.The machine itself has lots of nice features -- which are probably shared by a lot of other laptop machines. I would like to see a more robust connection to the AC power cable -- it's only a matter of time before something breaks. This, unfortunately, seems to be the standard of the industry. People have been making detachable power cords for generations now -- why is this so difficult?The battery only seems to hold an hour's worth of charge, a distinct disadvantage. Remains to be seen if that will improve with time.
bashley
Pasadena, CA