Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have an operating system recommendation for a beginner?
Ubuntu is a safe bet for a beginner, but whichever *buntu you choose you can "convert" from one to the other via the package manager.
Can I run Windows programs on Linux?
First check with the software vendor to see if they provide a Linux version. If they don't, then the program may still run on Linux using a compatibility layer (see Wine and Crossover. Wine is free, Crossover is licensed). We recommend not relying on a compatibility layer, however, if the program is critical to you or your business.
What's "The repository"?
Most software that you install on Linux resides in an on-line server called a repository which is managed by the organisation that provides the distribution. The repository is accessed via an included program called a "package manager" and software installation is as easy as point and click.
Its a bit like having an App Store on your computer - but where the Apps are free!
I have a Windows computer. Will my Linux Laptop communicate with it?
You can share documents between Windows and Linux computers in a similar way as you would between two Windows computers using a program called Samba. As Samba is preinstalled on the laptops we supply, all you have to do is choose what to share!
You can read and write Microsoft Office documents using OpenOffice.
Will my printer or scanner work with Linux?
Many manufacturers state only Windows or Mac as a system requirement. This doesn't mean the hardware won't work with Linux, just that the manufacturer won't support it. In practice most hardware works with Linux without any additional driver installation, but its always worth checking. The following links are useful for checking the main catagories of hardware:
Printers
Scanners
What are Gnome, XFCE and KDE?
These are examples desktops environments. Desktop environments give you ways to launch and manage applications for example through a taskbar, application menu or desktop shortcuts. They may also provide other features like desktop wallpaper and applets (small programs that run continuously and do things like checking mail or your laptops battery).
The differences between Gnome, XFCE and KDE are largely around what features they provide, graphical sophistication, what computer resources they use. From most users point of view the differences are more about look and feel.
In terms of how the desktop environment may influence your choice of distribution, its less of a consideration these days as you can easily install a new desktop environment alongside the one that came with your distribution. Its then a matter of selecting your preferred environment when you login.
If you're not sure, Gnome is considered a good all round choice.
What kind of warranty do I get?
All of the hardware we sell is covered by a 12-month Manufacturer's warranty. If your product is still in the warranty period and develops a fault, please contact us.
We provide you with a facility to create your own back-up media, and you can check our Frequently Asked Questions and Forums in the event of any problems. If you still have questions, feel free to contact us via the "E-mail us" option at the top of the page and we'll see what we can do to help.
Open source software is not covered by any warranty whatsoever, but that does not mean there is no support. If fact the support provided community forums such as the Ubuntu Forum is pretty comprehensive.
Does Gersemi HDMI output audio along with video?
Yes. In order to get HDMI audio output, select System / Preferences / Sound, then on the hardware tab choose "Digital Stereo (HDMI) Output" from the "Profile" drop down.
Should I have 32 bit or 64 bit?
The stock Ubuntu 32 bit kernel will only address just over 3Gb whereas the 64 bit kernel addresses > 4Gb. If you need more than 3Gb of memory, go 64 bit.
It used to be the case that some applications and especially drivers were only available for 32 bit, but these days pretty much everything (especially open source) runs on 64 bit. If you think you are going to need some proprietary (i.e. none open source) software or use hardware that may not have open source drivers then its worth checking before you commit to 64 bit.
Ubuntu 10.04 or 10.10?
Ubuntu 10.04 is a long term release with the emphasis on stability. Canonical will provide security updates until Apr-2013. Ubuntu 10.10 is a standard release with support provided until Apr-2012.
If you have a Loki, an Odin or a Gersemi you probably don't have much reason to upgrade, but if you are buying an Odin 2 or a Vali we feel that 10.10 is a better choice as the kernel is better suited. Also, you can always upgrade to a later version of Ubuntu when support for 10.10 expires.
