[Utilizer]

I have been looking for a good source for a totally open-source system for some time now. Granted, this is not cutting-edge hardware, but for some reason hardware OEMs are notoriously difficult about releasing information about exactly how their platforms function, so the older systems are realistically the best way to get in on the fun.

Or you could compromise and pay much more for SOME proprietary components/coding/BIOScode on a unit if you feel you absolutely need as close to the newest thingys as possible.

Then again, if you actually want to pay more, you probably are not interested in this info...

[Cringing Negativism Network]

$328???

I just bought a new Windows 8 machine for that much.

(well a couple bucks more, but not much)

[2ndDivisionVet]

Related:

Teacher Nicholas Seward’s 3D printer designs pushing the tech envelope & helping stretch young minds
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/3103219/posts

[ExCTCitizen]

I would buy it. Windows gets worse then better. Linux is great.

[GeronL]

That is far too much money for an old laptop

I have a Toshiba Satellite you might be able to get used online for a hundred bucks running Ubuntu on what was a clean hard drive.

I have no real complaints.

[GeronL]

$328 is crazy

How much is the kickback to FSF?

There is no reason to buy THAT computer to run a free Linux OS.

[FLAMING DEATH]

I got rid of my last Windows computer in 2005. I personally could not be happier.

It is so nice not to have to worry about antivirus, spyware, etc., and be able to find software that meets my needs in an instant and download it without fees of any kind.

There was a learning curve when I started out, but now, upgrading to the latest and greatest OS whenever I want is a breeze. Best part is, if I don’t like something, I can switch to a different OS in a half hour!