Hi, all,

First of all, I have not tried to install anything yet, just doing some research.

I recently bought a HP notebook with the intention of installing Linux (I was thinking Ubuntu?) on it, and in my ignorance I assumed that driver support for Linux wouldn't be a problem. Alas, I have some difficulties finding out how to proceed with the installation.

The laptop I bought is a HP Pavilion dm1-2020eo, however it seems it is a region specific model, as I couldn't find it on HP's UK/US sites. Here is a link to the Norwegian description; I am sure you can figure out what the specifications are (don't know if they are relevant at all, though, heh).

I couldn't find the model in this list, Windows drivers can be found here.

I realise this whole post is a mess, however I hope someone is able point me in the right direction.


Thanks in advance!


(On a side note, does anyone know a good guide for building a boot disc/USB stick so I can customize the distro with drivers, partition tools etc?)

What is exactly your problem? Which drivers are your issue? Wireless? Network? Video? What?
I am unable to find the make of the the wireless adapter from the site.
On the side note, Ubuntu, though, should be fine choice if you are trying Linux for the first time.

You are not specifying your issue correctly .

Is the issue with installation of ubuntu on your hp pavillion ?

Or

Is the issue with any device driver after installation of ubuntu ?

If you want make bootable linux USB stick you can follow the guide below:
http://thegnulinuxguy.wordpress.com/...m-a-usb-stick/

Don't worry about the laptop's specs.

1. Down the Ubuntu iso file
2. Burn to a CD
3. Boot the CD

If everything (video, wireless, sound, etc...) works click the install icon on the desktop to install. If it doesn't all work, then you can google for possible work-arounds, or try a different distro.

Ok, I'm sorry, maybe I'm just making a problem out of nothing here. I just assumed that Linux would require specific drivers for every laptop model. If drivers are universal then never mind, feel free to neglect this topic.

Not quite universal; the two most frequently-encountered problems seem to be with video and wireless cards. Ubuntu lets you easily load proprietary drivers (when available), which does make it a good choice for someone just starting out with Linux.

The best bet here is to try Ubuntu in Live mode. This should most probably give you some idea if all the hardware is supported out of the box or you need external drivers.