Software:
I have successfully installed Slackware 9.1 and Current, SUSE 9.0 and Mandrake 9.1, 9.2 and 10.0.
None of these require much fuss. Just make sure you install acpi. SUSE does it by default. For Mandrake you'll need to select acpi and acpid durring package selection and manually enable it in LiLo(or Grub if you use it).
For Slackware, just choose bareacpi.i when it comes time to select your kernel.
MSRP at the time I purchased this Laptop was $2400.00. I got an incredible deal due to the fact that I found a refurbished floor model.
Mandrake does not install acpi and acpid by default. Nor does it list these packages in the tree view. You need to select flat view and add these packages to be installed. This is the case on 9.0, 9.1, 9.2 and 10 CE.
Also, you'll need to enable ACPI and Force No APIC in LiLo(or GRUB if you use it). This can be done durring the Summary stage of the install.
Graphics aren't configured by default. You'll want to select Generic Flap Panel 1400x1050 and set it for 24bpp. everything else, use the defaults.
After installation completes, you'll want to add a line to XF86Config-4 in the Video Card Driver section. Option "AGPMode" "4" will enable the lid switch and backlight function keys.
Everything else is just defaults.
The only thing Mandrake doesn't handle is the WinModem(SUSE supports this). You'll need to get the driver from linmodems.org if you need it. I didn't so I don't consider it a drawback.
All-in-all, this is an outstanding laptop for Linux users.
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