[NTLUG:Discuss] Suggestion for a Saturday Topic - also RHCE study question.

[Lee Doran]

One thing I am having a real hard time with as I am learning more about
linux is how to setup, configure and understand how HARDware (guess that
is why it is called HARD - right?) is comumicatied with by the Kernal
and other OS processes.  I would like to suggest a hardware weekend that
would cover things like the following:

 

General: where to find drivers, HW utilities that are part of the OS, HW
utilities that are handy and helpful, and an overview of how the HW
subsystem works. 

 

Some details:

 

USB - jump drives, external HD's, ethernet adapters and the like.

            Example:  Here at home I run My computer on Freespire distro
- it found My usb wireless adapter without any problem - hmm the main
reason I choose it over any other others. 

 

Video cards - and video settings for graphical interfaces - the bain of
most linux installs - I know there are so many variables, but if someone
could go over some basics and general setups that would be way cool.

 

Printers - printer drivers and where and how to find the right linux
drivers for big name printers: Brother, HP and the like.

 

 

I am ask this of course for very selfish reasons - being a long time
Windows guy, so far this has been the hardest part of linux to really
get a handle on.  I am also trying to get a handle on those brands of HW
that linux ready so to speak. 

 

Examples:

I have found that 3ware and RocketRaid cards seem to have good reviews
and lots of drivers for linux for their RAID cards. I have set up a
couple of both, even got the notification emailing to work and the like.
It would be handy to know things like what Printers folks got to work,
video cards that have good linux support and the like. 

 

Anyway - just a wish list from a newbie....

 

I have also been thinking of studing for the  RHCE. Years ago several of
us at my job at the time started a study group and we got several of the
early Novell certifications.  Is there anyone who is a regular that is
RHCE that would be willing to give some advice on how to best proceed?
I have bought a RHCE study book and after going through it, most likely
will take the short 2/3 day course, if I can't find a good study group -
might invest in the full week course.  Does anyone know where a good
place here in the metroplex to take these courses? 

 

Lee