2.2 Learning Linux, Linux on Laptops, Linux
Handhelds
(note:
may be moving shortly to SECTION 3)
LAPTOPS: I have successfully installed some form of Linux on over 20 different models of laptops. One of my first was the Gateway 2000 "Handbook". I'll leave the page up here as reference for anyone that still has one of these mini-notebooks:
Gateway 2000 Handbook 486Notes: I do not own the Handbook anymore, so the only information I can provide is through the link above. I used Linux heavily on the Gateway Handbook and the link has detailed install information. I use a similar method of installing Slackware 7.x/8.x on any laptop that I try it on (with only minor changes for X-windows setup). Slackware can be installed without a CD-ROM drive, network card, or second Linux PC. That's typically why I use Slackware. All you need is a LapLink cable (or null modem cable) and a clean DOS partition with about 400mb free (with a 2gb drive, that leaves 1.6gb for Linux, which should be plenty for an old laptop). See the Gateway 2000 Handbook section for more information. Currently, I've been using Slackware versions 10.x or newer on my new computers and experimenting with the Linux distribution that Novell purchased, SuSE. Slackware and its derivatives (like Vector Linux) are still bit-for-bit the fastest of all the Linux distributions (at least in my opinion).
HANDHELDS: My latest "toy" is a Sharp Zaurus SL-C700. This is a slick Japanese-market Linux handheld. I've managed to convert mine to English, but beyond that feel I am still in the learning stages. I'll put up some pages on conversion and software if I have time (or I don't sell it first). In the meantime, you can pick up any of the SL-Cxxx series models at the following sites:
Related Links:
- The Slackware Linux Project - my favorite Linux distribution (although I only use it on a desktop now)
- SuSE Linux
- Linux on Laptops
- TuxMobile
- Linux Devices - if it runs Linux, then it's probably listed here.
Yes, I am an ordained minister (debated by some, but legal in all 50 states). In 1995, I became ordained with the Universal Life Church (ULC) after dissatisfaction with my former Presbyterian church (let's just say the minister at my last church is in jail now for improper social behavior).
You may have heard of the ULC. They ordain anyone that asks, and they allow you to have your own religious beliefs (which I do and I feel very strongly about). Joining this church has completely revolutionized my own spiritual beliefs by the embracing and celebration of all religions, not just one.
...and just what are my beliefs? I will state simply here that I believe in a higher power and I believe in some form of spiritual evolution, such as an afterlife or state of enlightenment. Beyond that, I am more of a man who follows science. Also, and this is key, I will only discuss religion if asked. I never push my beliefs on others. In my opinion, all major religions are important and should be studied, respected, and understood before an informed decision can be made. "Do that which is right" (ULC Motto)
In 2004, I performed my first Christian, non-denominational wedding (closing prayer pictured above). It was with out a doubt another life changing event. I plan to continue my study of world religions in my spare time and perform future services when called upon.
Related Links:
Note: the ULC lost its founder, Rev. Kirby J. Hensley, in 1999. The church has been evolving and/or breaking apart ever since. As of the start of 2005, there were now FOUR major ULC web sites to add to all the confusion surrounding the ULC. I will break them down below if you are interested in exploring more:
- ULC Headquarters (the Original Church in Modesto, CA) - the three sites below all register you back with the original church when you apply for ordination.
- ULC Seminary (run by the Rev. Amy Long) - best of the bunch in my opinion. Rev. Amy has the best ULC products and her little black wedding book has helped me with many services that I perform.
- The ULC On-Line (run by Kevin Andrews) - this site still has many of the older books and texts that were available from the main headquarters before Rev. Hensley's passing. It also carries clergy clothing, certificates, and other ULC products.
- The ULC Monastery (run by Br. Daniel Zimmerman) - the oldest and original ULC site on the web. However, since Rev. Amy broke away from this site and started her own, there has not been any new content in a while and the products are running out. Try the Seminary or the ULC On-Line for best results.
