Loading Ubuntu onto HP 2133 (or any other Linux?) Big problem

DavidS_UK · 07-30-2009, 11:18 AM

Hi
Very newbie here, sorry about that.
I wanted to put Linux on a HP2133 netbook. Currently it has Vista, which takes an age to load and run. But it does work OK... But I want to put dual boot with Linux on this machine.

Having searched the threads here, I see that the Ubuntu is rated as easiest for newbies, plus can be tested from a USB stick before installing.

Now I have successfully downloaded a copy of the Ubuntu 9.04 netbook mix. I have successfully loaded it onto a USB as per the instructions.

It loads Ubuntu onto the HP, but only half the screen is displayed, I can only just see the "Preferences" tab and the "Display" icon. But no matter what settings I select it doesn't display properly (1024 by 600 or whatever).

I am downloading another copy of the .img file in case that was slightly corrupted.

So my questions are:

1. Is there a better (more compatable, easier to install and make work) version of Linux I should be using?
2. Is there anyway I can get this done without having to type strings of gobbledygook into a text screen because I don't have any knowledge what to type?
3. Any other suggestions please??

atj08s · 07-30-2009, 01:42 PM

"1. Is there a better (more compatable, easier to install and make work) version of Linux I should be using?"

The 2133 ships with SuSE, so if you want the official Linux installation for it, just get the CD from HP. That should also include all the drivers.

"3. Any other suggestions please??"

Yes, instead of Ubuntu 9.04, use Ubuntu Netbook Remix

http://www.ubuntu.com/GetUbuntu/download-netbook

It's regular Ubuntu, but with a UI that works on small screens and with more driver support for netbooks. The graphics support is poor (=slow) but usable in my experience:

https://wiki.ubuntu.com/HardwareSupp...133%20Mininote

Overall, the HP 2133 is a decidedly mixed bag hardware-wise: noisy, slow, hot, short battery life, and bad graphics card. But it also has a great keyboard and design.

Overall, you're probably better off with an Eee PC 1000, and Ubuntu runs like a champ on that.

DavidS_UK · 07-31-2009, 02:14 AM

Thanks.
That is a good idea about finding out what HP might have available themselves.

As far as your other suggestions, as I wrote, I have downloaded the Ubuntu 9.04 netbook (re)mix.

Yes, if I was buying a new netbook I probably would buy something else. But this is the machine I have, QED.

kschmitt · 07-31-2009, 02:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by atj08s

"1. Is there a better (more compatable, easier to install and make work) version of Linux I should be using?"

The 2133 ships with SuSE, so if you want the official Linux installation for it, just get the CD from HP. That should also include all the drivers.

I had an hp 2133, and sold it (for < 1/3 what I paid for it, but I had it about a year....), and, in fact, ran Ubuntu on it.

HP's SuSE install was nearly unusable, and the driver support under it was barely better than stock Ubuntu8.

The Ubuntu netbook remix doesn't work quite as well as the full blown Ubuntu 9.x on this laptop.

I'd recommend using the in-kernel, not the 3rd party broadcom, wireless driver.

I never ever ever got the microphone to work, or an external mic via the jack either. The video did, however, work fine for skype.

Now, after running all the updates, if you still can't select the correct video size or the native (unichrome/via chrome) driver, read this post here.

https://answers.launchpad.net/ubuntu/+question/58606