Monday, January 28, 2013

Arch Linux on old laptop.

Couple weeks ago I decided to try Arch Linux on an extra partition of my old
laptop. The HDD on this computer has a /data partition and 2 OS partitions. The
OS I use mostly on this rig is Lubuntu. Lubuntu uses the LXDE desktop which
functions well and uses less resources than most. Decided to try Arch on the
other partition.

The archlinux.org/download page has the install image with links to detailed
instruction for installation. This installs the base system where you can
configure the system and install your choice of desktops and or window manager
and add any desired applications.

In this case LXDE was the logical choice for this under powered old laptop. The
Arch User Repository (AUR) also has Razor-qt which is currently under
development but is quite usable. I couldn't resist installing it. It works
great! Works fine with kate and a few other KDE Apps I can't do without.

My previous experience with Arch over 3 years ago was less successful. This time
I am quite happy. A couple little items to iron out when I get around to it but
so far the system is quite stable. Next step I may decide to try it on my
desktop computer.

Ken.