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Old 12-23-2007, 06:49 AM   #1
asparagus
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Question stability of debian


what is the stable linux distributins?
i am using dedian gnome desktop with 256 ram and pentium p3 possessor but sometimes it gets hang.
do you know any solution?
 
Old 12-23-2007, 07:54 AM   #2
acid_kewpie
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we couldn't possibly offer any advice with so little information... what are you doing at the time for example? "debian" isn't able to be deemed stable, it could be all manner of versions and package updates.
 
Old 12-23-2007, 08:33 AM   #3
elliott678
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Also, don't rule out hardware as being the cause of an instability, bad power supplies, leaking capacitors and bad memory can all cause instability and are very common issues.
 
Old 12-23-2007, 08:35 AM   #4
cmnorton
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Possibly Memory

Quote:
Originally Posted by acid_kewpie View Post
we couldn't possibly offer any advice with so little information... what are you doing at the time for example? "debian" isn't able to be deemed stable, it could be all manner of versions and package updates.
I concur that you need to post more information. I encountered a freeze-like condition with a P IV and 256MB RAM and Ubuntu, but I was only able to know that by having an X terminal open and determining what other processes were running.
 
Old 12-23-2007, 08:45 AM   #5
dickgregory
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The term "stable" can mean more than one thing. It usually describes a package or system that is well tested and not having frequent updates or fix releases. When it is used to describe the reliability of its behavior, a better term might be "robust", which is what I think you are asking about.

Robustness might be affected by several things in your case.

What version of Debian are you using? Debian has a reputation for being both stable and robust, except in some of the bleeding edge beta versions.

How many applications are you trying to run concurrently in your 256MG memory? Most modern users need more than that now. Memory is cheap and I would recommend upgrading to 1G.

Are you using robust applications? Some applications like Beryl / Compiz are fun and even included with stable distros, but can cause problems on some hardware, or not run at all on other hardware.

Have you tested your RAM? The most stable and robust software in the world will crash if your RAM is flaky.

My advice is to add some memory and test it. The observe closely what you are doing when your software fails. Notice also what background services are active. Then when you need to ask for help, be complete and specific about what is happening.
 
Old 12-23-2007, 09:10 AM   #6
arijit_2404
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If you want to use debian in 256M RAM, then I would suggest you xfce desktop for the purpose.
And Etch is very stable for everyday use.
 
Old 12-23-2007, 09:15 AM   #7
sycamorex
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It might not be the question of debian's "stability" itself, but particular programs that you use - they might be buggy, or as someone mentioned your hardware (wrong drivers?)
 
Old 12-23-2007, 06:45 PM   #8
AwesomeMachine
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It's probably a hardware or software issue, or both, or the opposite, but not neither.
 
Old 12-23-2007, 07:39 PM   #9
masonm
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Based upon the provided information I would have to say no.
 
  


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