Re: [tlug] Building a Linux machine

[CL <az.4tlug@example.com>]

Joe Rodrigue wrote:
> Hi, I want to put together a Linux desktop system to use at work for
> writing programs, with ordinary sound and video capability and
> perhaps extra RAM.  Unfortunately there may be restrictions
> on where I can get it, unless I want to pay for it myself.
>
> 2.  I may have to simply build the thing myself.  Any suggestions
> for hardware for a basic machine, suppliers, or pointers to people
> who like to talk about this?  I am trying to come in under Y100,000.
>   
It's easy to get in cheap and, when the hook is set, you can upgrade 
later.  When I decided to learn Linux I picked up a year-old P4 IBM / 
Lenovo ThinkCentre from Otto.  I replaced the 80Gb drive with a 355Gb 
one and expanded the memory to 2Gb.  IBM's on board video and audio 
(Intel) are more than adequate for business and an occasional You Tube.  
I think I have about Yen 19,000 in the box.  I didn't need a screen, 
keyboard, or mouse as I have a CPU switcher and just use keyboard 
commands to move back and forth. 
> I am in Sakai (near Osaka) if that makes a difference.  Thanks.
There is a reputable Otto or Otto-like PC recycler in Nipponbashi.  It 
is / was located on the main road but you had to enter the building from 
the side street and the shop itself was on an upper floor.  I haven't 
been there in about six months so can't say for certain that it is still 
in business.  The nice thing about Otto is that you can take the box out 
of the shop and bring it back for a credit if it doesn't work as 
advertised. 

My advice is to devote part of a Saturday finding what is available 
locally by walking around the area.  There have always been a lot of 
small shops off the main road and in the upper floors of backstreet 
buildings  where there are a lot of uncatalogued good deals in and 
around Nipponbashi. 

--
CL