[SWLUG] Re: Discuss Digest, Vol 3, Issue 13

[Robert McQueen]

Rhys Sage wrote:
> It seems that only the IBM X40 seems suitable. I keep
> coming back to this one although I find it's a bit on
> the big side. I was really looking for something about
> 8 x 6 rather than 10 x 8.
...
> Interestingly, I contacted IBM as they're supporters
> of Linux but they only sell the X40 with XP installed.

I have an X40, along with several other Debianites and friends at uni - 
they're really well supported by Linux (especially Ubuntu which supports 
all the hardware out of the box, including ACPI and sleeping). You can 
get the X (intel chipset), wireless, bluetooth, ACPI, speedstep, etc all 
working with a little proddling, and the battery life is fantastic - 
with the extended battery, a good 6-7 hours depending on usage. They're 
really lightweight and manage to be small without compromising on the 
keyboard - the keys at the sides like shift/tab/ctrl are shrunken, which 
in practice makes no odds, but the main keys are a sensible size, so its 
actually comfortable to use and type on for long periods, and it has a 
correct three mice buttons to go with the nipple. Given that its so well 
supported by Linux, and such a mighty fine piece of kit, its a shame 
that IBM don't ship it with Linux preinstalled. The only downside is the 
price tag, but otherwise I'd thoroughly recommend one - a very nice 
purchase.

Regards,
Rob