[oclug] Update: Linux on cheap PCs

[Jack]

A few weeks ago I posted a question about how well Linux runs on
bargain-basement computers. Encouraged by the replies, I took the plunge
and bought a new computer for a whopping $350 (plus tax). I'm pleased to
say that Linux works very well on this box. I've installed both RedHat 9
and Mandrake 9.1, both successfully.

Amazingly, all the on-board stuff works: sound, video, network card. The
motherboard is an ECS K7SOM+, which has the CPU soldered right on it(!).
The CPU is an AMD Duron 1800+, which, as far as I can tell is running at
1.2 gigahertz (that's what dmesg tells me).

You may be able to buy this system for even less now. I bought it at
Skynet on Merivale Road. It's the first time I've dealt with them and I
have no complaints. Anybody else have any experience with them?

BTW, the system came with a Maxtor 40 gig HD, 256 meg ram and a CD
drive.

Jack Gambino