Sunday, September 28, 2008

Ubuntu Netbook Remix



Ubuntu Netbook Remix is a 'respun' version of Ubuntu optimized to run on small internet-centric devices called netbooks like the Dell Mini 9, the Asus eeePC and the Aspire One. Canonical, Ubuntu's parent company, has collaborated with Intel on the Moblin Project to develop Ubuntu Netbook Remix. This collaboration has enabled Ubuntu to work better on devices with Intel components, smaller screens and limited functionality.

Netbook Remix is not another edition of Ubuntu, like Kubuntu, or Edubuntu, but rather a collection of seven packages that are installed on top of a standard Ubuntu image. You can see the majority of these seven packages in action in the above video.

The Netbook Remix packages are:

go-home-applet
This applet will display the desktop and also act as an active drag-and-drop area to which you can drop files, folders, and URLs. Upon dropping a valid link, the applet creates a new icon/laucher in the ume-launcher.

ume-launcher
The new graphical user interface developed by Canonical for a netbook's smaller screen. It's a functional launcher that encompass the whole desktop. It's large icons and grouped tabs allows you to access all your programs without having to scroll through pull down menus. On the left side of the launcher you'll find your applications and on the right side your home folder and any disks.

human-netbook-theme
A new theme was made to offset the smaller screen of netbooks. I think the darker color will help icons and colors stand out.

maximus
Like the Human theme maximus is designed to make using a smaller screen easier. Maximus maximizes a window when you open it and removes the title bar. This allows to work around the smaller screen. The title bar isn't needed seeing how Canonical created a new window picking applet for Ubuntu.

window-picker-applet
Seeing how windows will be drawn without tilt bars when maximized, the window-picker-applet is designed to help you easily navigate these maximized windows. In the upper left hand corner of the screen you will see the applet at work. It uses an icon to represent your unseen windows. Notice that the Remix does not use a bottom panel.

Ume-config-netbook
This module was made specifically for netbooks running the Intel Atom Processor and is a direct result of the Moblin project. ume-config-netbook will make sure Ubuntu is properly configured to take advantage of Intel's architecture.
Have a question or problem that this article doesn't cover?
Ask our Ubuntu Mini 9 Google Group for help.

Saturday, September 20, 2008

General Ubuntu Guides

These general Ubuntu guides work regardless of what version of Ubuntu you are using.

Hardware Guides:
  • Upgrade Your Hard Drive (coming soon)


Software Guides:

  • Installing MiniTube, YouTube player that doesn't use flash. Watch YouTube videos in HD without the studdering or tearing.



Fun Stuff:

Have a question or problem that this article doesn't cover?
Ask our Ubuntu Mini 9 Google Group for help.

Saturday, September 13, 2008

The Dell Inspiron Mini 9 & Vostro A90 Service Manual

Dell has released the Dell Mini 9 Service Manual and Dell Vostro A90 Service Manual.

Dell's guides will walk you through the proper way to open and modify your Mini/Vostro with full color pictures and easy to follow directions.

There is a lot of information to take in. The Dell Mini 9 and Vostro A90 are incredibly mod friendly. Every component can be accessed easily with a small flat-blade screwdriver, a small Phillips-head screwdriver and a antistatic wristband. The majority of components can be accessed and upgrades can be done just by removing the back panel.

main back panel

motherboard

Besides that, it shows you how to correctly and safely upgrade your hard drive and memory. I can't wait for solid-state hard drive prices to fall. 16GB is nice but 32GB would be money.

solid state hard drive

memory module

It also shows how to install a SIM card or mini-cards for WLAN and Mobile Broadband or WWAN. Which means I finally have a light weight laptop that can be connected anywhere.

sim card

mini card

Have a question or problem that this article doesn't cover?
Ask our Ubuntu Mini 9 Google Group for help.

Ordered My Mini 9 Yesterday

I ordered my Dell Dell Inspiron Mini 9 last night. I ended up costing me $494 plus tax and shipping.
Here is what I bought:


Intel Atom Processor N270 (1.6GHz/533Mhz FSB/512K cache)
Obsidian Black
1GB DDR2 at 533MHz
Glossy 8.9 inch LED display (1024X600)
Intel Graphics Media Accelerator (GMA) 950
16GB Solid State Drive
Mini OS powered by Ubuntu 8.04
Wireless 802.11g Mini Card
Integrated 1.3M Pixel Webcam
32WHr Battery (4 cell)
Built-in Bluetooth 2.1 capability


It should ship around October 15th. I could have gotten the Windows XP version for the same price with the same specs but elected not to. I'm interested in how Dell and Canonical will ship the Mini 9. The Mini OS powered by Ubuntu Hardy Heron 8.04 does look interesting and it will be nice to have an operating system that is tailored to the hardware.

Have a question or problem that this article doesn't cover?
Ask our Ubuntu Mini 9 Google Group for help.

Monday, September 1, 2008

Game on Linux

Frozen Bubble
- Puzzle Bobble clone with LAN and internet multiplayer.

World of Goo
- critically acclaimed puzzle game, a must play

Grid Wars 2
- Geometry Wars clone






Have a question or problem that this article doesn't cover?
Ask our Ubuntu Mini 9 Google Group for help.