Re: [tlug] New Desktop Computer

[<burlingk@example.com>]

> -----Original Message-----
> From: tlug-bounces@example.com [mailto:tlug-bounces@example.com]?? Behalf Of
> Jason Hall
> Sent: Tuesday, September 19, 2006 11:12 AM
> To: tlug@example.com
> Subject: [tlug] New Desktop Computer
> 
> I'm looking to get a new desktop computer sometime in the 
> near future. I
> don't need the latest & greatest, just newer & better.
> 
> I'll probably dual-boot it with CentOS & WinXP, though spend 
> most of my
> time in linux. A virtual install of Win2k will be enough for 
><snip>
> My question is about what to get and from where. I've built my own
> machines in the past but just don't know all about the latest hardware
> and compatibility issues. For that reason, maybe I could be better off
> with a packaged unit such as from Dell.

My main advice, is RAM, lots of RAM. :-)
All the "modern" processors are pretty speedy now.  For running virtual machines though, you will want a decent amount of RAM. :)

As for compatability:  For video, I would go with nVidia.  I know that some people don't like the fact that they only provide binaries for the driver, but they still have the most overall support for non-windows machines.

For other parts, I don't know what the status is on Linux and cooperating with things such as card readers and the like.  Depending on what pieces you use, a little research may be in order.  I also know very little about CentOS. ^_^  I like Ubuntu personaly.  It makes a lot of things virtually plug and play. ^^;;