Getting ready for the installation

Installation

Getting ready for the installation
First of all, before we start the installation you must know the minimum requirements to run Linux. I want to make sure that your installation won't stop in the middle because of lack of space or because of hardware incompatibility.

I suggest you use a Pentium 400 MHZ+, because we are planning to use a desktop with graphical interface. The graphical interface is called Xwindow. The Xwindow allows you to browse your system by using your pointing device (mouse). For a practice installation, a Pentium II or III with 64 MB RAM and 4.0 GB of hard drive space will do. Pentium MMX, Pentium 4 and AMD Athlon will do even better. If your computer is new, some of its peripherals may not work.

Most hardware works well with Linux. Make sure that your hardware is Linux compatible. Browse the web in search of information about your hardware.

If you are planning to use a modem, make sure your modem is a real modem (hardware modem) read on the retail box, it should say, “Works with Linux”. Be careful not to buy a software modem (win modem); it will not work with Linux. It only works with Windows.

My personal Minimum requirements:

Pentium II 400 MHZ 128 MB RAM GB Hard Drive 16 MB /32 MB Video Card or more 24x CD-ROM Sound Card Net card Keyboard Mouse SVGA/UVGA Color Monitor The minimum video memory requirement is 4 MB, if that's all what you have that is fine.

Before We start the installation you must know about your hardware. Such as brand names and specifications, especially video cards and monitors. I suggest you use Nvidia for a video card (if new). For net card use Net gear, 3com or Intel. If your hardware doesn't work, check here to find out if it is supported: http://www.linux-mandrake.com/en/fhard.php3 Or check the manufacturer's website. Note: if it is a built in video card you may on a rare occasion encounter problems.