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Hardware issues

Posted 12-13-2014 at 03:25 PM by onebuck
Updated 12-15-2014 at 11:04 AM by onebuck (typo)

Hi,

I maintain my equipment and attempt to keep things updated. Of late my Dell XPS702 Laptop has given some major hardware issue. First off my Wireless mini-pci Intel card started failing. I contacted Dell.com via chat to get a replacement card. The rep replied it would cost $99 for the card. I asked him if the unit supported Bluetooth? He stated no! I asked for a compatible device that supported through 'N' and support Bluetooth. He came back with a device that met these specs for $28.60, delivered price of $30.60. So I ordered for two day shipment, it took 6 days. Long story is that I did get the card. Broke down the Laptop and replaced old with new. Re-assembled Laptop. I have been using Slackware 64 14.1 on the Dell XPS702. Booted but no joy. I ran through the logs to checked on firmware and driver(iwlwifi) for Intel Advanced-N 6230. Reload a new firmware set still no joy.

So I decided to move the system to Slackware64 '-current'. Installed with no real issues. Moved my configs over to new install. Reboot, lo an behold I had wireless. Re-tweak configs to my nets.
I did a startx and screen was terrible. Checked the 'logs' and my Intel i915 was not configuring properly. I used '/extra/xf86-video-nouveau-blacklist/' package to blacklist nouveau. Then I just did a 'XF86Config' to create a new '/etc/X11/xorg.conf'. I know that Slackware does not require a '/etc/X11/xorg.conf' but I wanted to set things my way. Checked contents to be sure everything looked set to go. 'startx' again and my Laptop state was the same as before the wireless failure. I will setup Nvidia 'optimus' using 'bumblebeed' again.

I am now using 'Slackware64 -current' with a decent display and fully optimized fonts and system. Took more time than I had planned but nothing good comes easy.

One other note: I have noticed the Slackware forum has had loads of posts from vagrant users that have caused issues with fellow members in The mass exodus if Slackware uses Systemd. I did not post in the heap of a mess because my temper would cause me some issues, so I created: 'Open acknowledgement of appreciation to Slackware Team.' to hopefully show gratitude to Slackware team members.

Threads like 'The mass exodus if Slackware uses Systemd' just create issues for all involved with members who really do not understand Slackware nor know the history. Some of the vagrant posts were from members who were trolling and posting FUD. Systemd could evolve into something but personally I do not wish to move in that direction at this point in time.

THANK YOU, Slackware team members! Keep up the good work.

Happy Slacking!
Have fun & enjoy!
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