Dell XPS 17

rutbug · 03-28-2012, 02:04 PM

Is Dell XPS 17 compatible for using linux (ubuntu)?

jefro · 03-28-2012, 02:59 PM

I'd guess yes. Since you haven't identified each component in the system, we can only guess. Dell, HP and some of the other big name companies tend to use common parts. Those high volume common parts tend to have linux support. Add to that, some of the big companies offer linux stock too and that seems to help sometimes.

If you post exact specs we might be able to offer a better guess. What do you NEED to have working and then what would you like to have working?

syg00 · 03-29-2012, 01:13 AM

I always make sure I get the Intel wifi chip rather than the (normally standard) Broadcom - has typically been better supported, although Broadcom is improving their Linux support.
Other than that the xps range seems to work fine. I use ATI rather than nvidia, and find the radeon driver suits - I don't have a requirement for 3D.

rutbug · 03-31-2012, 10:05 AM

Good point; here's a more detailed list of the hardware variations:

Display: FHD (1920x1090p) 17.3" w/2.0 MP webcam
CPU: i7 Core: 2760QM
HD: 750GB 7200RPM SATA
Vid: NVidia GeForce GT555M 3GB w/Optimus
DVD: 8x TrayLoad DualLayer

jefro · 03-31-2012, 05:06 PM

Peek at this for ideas. In the end it seems they could simply install. http://www.linuxquestions.org/questi...fedora-924544/

I did see one post where the bios needed to be updated. I am never a fan of such a thing. Be sure you weight the risks before you attempt it.

Cheesesteak · 04-07-2012, 07:40 PM

My XPS 17 (L702X) works just fine with Linux. I specifically ordered mine without Optimus support... just have a GeForce GT 550M 1GB for video.