Re: Linux on an i386

[Tony Gettig <tgettig@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

I'd like to set it up as a server of sorts on my network at home. I won't be
doing graphics. I want to check out how some of the basic network services
function (POP3, Apache, file sharing, etc) from my other PC (Linux & Win95).
Also IP masquerading connecting to my ISP.

I'm probably going to throw a beefier machine at this project in a few
months, but it would be nice to learn some of this before I really try to use
it for productive purposes. And heck, I like a little torture every now and
then with projects lke this.

One of the things I got from my brother is an old monitor...the kind with a
9-pin connector. I figured I had to use the card out of the PC to connect
this monitor. Maybe there's an adapter? I didn't think there was, but you
never know. I am picking up an extra VGA monitor soon that I could use
instead. The hard drive is undetermined at this time, but probably at least
an 800 MB.

Adam wrote:

> >How would Linux run on a 386-DX40 with 8 MB and EGA display? Dare I
> >attempt it? I just inherited some parts from my brother and was kicking
> >the idea around.
> >
> >I really am planning to come to next week's meeting (5/12). This pesky
> >job thing keeps getting in the way. :)
>
> I ran Linux (in the 0.99 days) on an AMD386DX40 and 16Mb or RAM,  with no
> problems.  Even with the slow 420Mb IDE drive it was quite acceptable.
> That +8Mb of RAM I suspect made a huge diffence though.  Swapping will
> kill a machine like that.  And I've never used EGA (but I assume it's
> supported).  A nice ISA Accelerated VGA card I think would be a lot
> better, as you don't want to waste any CPU cycle with only a 386.  You
> should be able to find one really cheap.  Maybe someone on the list has a
> junker their willing to sell.
>
> What do you intend to use it for?  Graphics work will choke it,  but for
> anything else it should be ok.  What is the spec of the hard drive?