TCLUG Archive
[Date Prev][Date Next][Thread Prev][Thread Next][Date Index][Thread Index]

Re: [TCLUG:435] High School needs Linux info



Jim Walters wrote:

>         Here are some of my goofy ideas:
>         1) Depending on the amount of onboard video RAM, you may not need to upgrade the video.  1M VRAM will support 1024x768x256 I believe.  On a 486, running a high-color mode will slow things way down IMHO.

I think these Compaqs only have 256k on-board video. I tried doing a
quick install on one of them a couple weeks ago and didn't have much
luck getting X to do anything.

>         2) I would spend some money on a few large hard drives for the servers.  Lots of students means lots of data!

I'm wondering what to use as a server. I don't know if I should use one
of the Pentiums I've already got or buy a nice workstation from VA
Research or something to be the server. I can't afford to buy a real
"server," but I don't think I really need one at this point. What do you
think?

>         3) Invest in a good tape backup system!  Not only will it save you from data loss due to hardware failures, but also can lead to less whining after somebody deletes their own files or misconfigures their system.

Would one of the 4mm DATs be the best approach here?

>         4) Keep the configuration of each machine as similar as possible.  That way when you make a configuration change, you don't have to figure out 40 different ways to make the change on each different setup.

Luckily, the 486DX machines are identical. This should make it easier to
configure one of them and then "clone" it over the network to all of the
other ones.

>         6) Don't be afraid to look at some commercial Linux software.  You mentioned StarOffice; consider also LinuxCad (www.linuxcad.com) for drafting.  Many Linux software vendors offer deep educational discounts.

I'm also very interested in the Corel office suite that should be
available in the fall. Maybe they'd be willing to give me a really great
deal on a site license.

Thanks for the info.

-Tim

-- 
Timothy Wilson		    | Powered by Linux |      Check out:
Henry Sibley High School    |                  | http://www.redhat.org
West St. Paul, MN  USA	    |  The choice of   | http://www.linux.org
wilson@chemsun.chem.umn.edu | a GNU generation | http://www.gnu.org