I am looking for a laptop that will run Debian GNU/Linux. Preferably, it should have an AMD processor, DVD, network interface, and plenty of RAM. Cash is a consideration but what are my top choices without spending hours sifting through the compatability files??

I would also like any advice about places to look for good components to build a desktop system and expect it to work with Linux when it is done. There seem to be thousands of choices, how do I narrow this down and make the job manageable??

Thanks a lot. I want to get started learning this Linux thing ASAP.

You should always check your distro's site for any hardware compatibility issues. I know that IBM tries very hard to be Linux conscious and there are other very good laptop makers coming aboard. Also check here for examples of how other folks worked their Linux experience on various laptops. Another resource might be this one .

Do your homework, and you will have a much better experience. Good luck and welcome to Linux !!

i have had mostly toshiba's through my time with computers and they all have worked fine with linux.

My friend has a HP and that had some problems, but we did get it workin fine after 2 days of trying

Linux seems to work on just about anything these days. However, things to check on is video chipset compatibity with www.Xfree86.org, Modem chipset compatility (check www.linmodems.org), or any other special hardware that a prospective laptop might have.