UKUUG Linux 2001 — Linux Developers' Conference 29 June - 1 July 2001, Renold Building, UMIST, Manchester

Werner Heuser

Linux on Laptops

Laptops are different from desktops/towers. They use certain hardware such as PCMCIA cards, infrared ports, batteries, docking stations and hardware parts cannot be changed as easily as in a desktops, e.g. the graphic card. Often their hardware is more limited (e.g. disk space, CPU speed), though the performance gap is becoming smaller. In many instances, laptops can become a desktop replacement.

Hardware support for Linux (and other operating systems) on laptops is sometimes more limited (e.g. graphic chips, internal modems). Laptops often use specialized hardware, hence finding a driver can be more difficult. Laptops are often used in changing environments, so there is a need for multiple configurations and additional security strategies.

And though there are some caveats, Linux is a better choice for laptops than most other operating systems because it supports numerous installation methods, works in many heterogeneous environments and needs smaller resources.

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