Using a KNOPPIX CD to investigate Linux compatibilty.

3.1416 · 05-15-2004, 02:32 PM

I have an opportunity to test some computers before purchase to determine if they are compatible with Linux and I was thinking that using a KNOPPIX CD would be a good way to do this without actually installing linux.

Are there some simple 'quick and dirty' commands that can determine if devices such as sound, video, modem, printer, scanner, etc., are readily recognized by KNOPPIX? I don't think it has to perform a full operational test of each device, just an indication that it is 'seen' should be enough.

alex

Mara · 05-15-2004, 04:03 PM

Moved: This thread is more suitable in Linux-General and has been moved accordingly to help your thread/question get the exposure it deserves.

Knoppix, or any other cdrom-based distribution is a very good idea to test hardware compatibility. The thing is that recognization itself is not enough. Winmodems, for example, are perfectly recognized, even when there's no driver. So to make sure the herdware piece is compatibile, you'll need to use it (print on a printer, play a sound on a sound card and so on).