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Linux on a Dell Inspiron 3700/7000/7500


Table of Contents

Computers This Page Applies To

Frequently Asked Questions

Setting Up Linux To Coexist With Windows98/NT

Base Installation

PCMCIA Configuration

Modem

X Windows

Sound

Accessing the Linux filesystem from Windows98/NT

Other Links

Laptop Cases and Travel Bags

Other Flavors Of UNIX

My Configuration
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Method 3: VESA Framebuffer -- SVGA for Redhat/Mandrake 6
Note: I consider this method obsolete, but it should still work. Redhat/Mandrake 6 already has framebuffer support built into the stock kernel, so the X installation procedure is simple if you can live with the version of pcmcia-cs that comes with the distribution. This method is probably the quickest way to getting X up and running; however, this solution uses the SVGA server, which is slow compared to the Mach64 solutions in the previous methods. I'd recommend that you take the time to follow Method 1 instead. Once you get this to work, however, you can go back and try to reconfigure for the Mach64 server (repeat the procedure below, but choose Mach64 as your X server, and replace the RedHat Mach64 server with the modified XF86_Mach64 3.3.6 libc6 binary.

  1. Install RH/Mandrake Linux per distribution instructions.
  2. When configuring X, choose Unlisted video card.
  3. Choose the SVGA server.
  4. For the monitor, choose CUSTOM, 1024x768 @ 60Hz (non-interlaced SVGA)
  5. When asked to choose video screen resolutions, choose 1024x768 at 16 bpp.
  6. Choose 50-90Hz for refresh rate.
  7. When asked if you want to probe for video card options or run the Xserver, answer NO.
  8. Reboot when asked to do so.
  9. Finish the install. Edit /etc/lilo.conf add the line "vga=791" after the "label=Linux" line. This sets the screen up for 16bpp color. If you want [slower] 24bpp color instead, use "vga=792" instead. Do you need instructions on how to modify the file? See Using Vi To Edit lilo.conf.
  10. Run /sbin/lilo at the command prompt. Note:Two people have reported that vga=791 doesn't work on her machine, but vga=792 does.
  11. When you reboot, you should see the little penguin at the top of the screen. If you don't see the penguin, your lilo.conf file is not correct. Double check to make sure the vga=791 line is there and you ran /sbin/lilo. You should then be able to run startx.

    Thanks to Mitchell Russell <mitchelld@thot.net> for these instructions and Donald Hellen <T2000@Zoomnet.net> for clarifications.

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