Damn Small Linux - Not!

NickM · Joined: 22 Dec 2006 Posts: 3

Hi, I've just set up DSL-N on an old Dell desktop. And it flies! The only linux distro out of 6 tried that worked first time!

BUT.. as a linux newbie I'd be grateful on some tips on how I could simplify / lock down the desktop for an 'oldie' user who easily gets confused. All we really need to use are an email client, a word processor and a browser (on a dial-up). The DSL-N apps seem ok, so three big icons on the desktop should do (only one workspace).

Another desirable feature in the apps. would be some very simple open/save dialogs - essential to avoid losing stuff. Easy auto mounting / launching of multimedia CD's DVD's too?

As a bonus, some multimedia plug-ins like realplayer (or can Mplayer launch from seamonkey??) and some picture browsing would be good.

Any other suggestions or ideas for a really easy desktop for oldies would be very welcome.

Thanks,

Nick

(originally posted on DSL board in error)

Juanito · Joined: 11 Sep 2006 Posts: 88 Location: Dubai, U.A.E.

You don't say which kind of install you did (CD, USB, HD) but unless you used the classic HD install, there is no need to "lock down the desktop" because if you reboot, everything will be restored to how it was.

It's true that there is no prompt to save files, but if you enable backup/restore everything saved to /dsl/home will be saved and restored next time you boot.

The automount feature is missing in DSL-N, but you can make a simple script and run it each time you need to access a CD/DVD (or USB stick for that matter.

NickM · Joined: 22 Dec 2006 Posts: 3

Thanks Juanito

I did the HD install - seems fine. I'll look at backup restore. (Is there a link to the best / most relevant newbie linux help for DSL... e.g. shell scripts, icons, workspaces... or is the best place the FAQ etc on this site / board?).

For the CD a script would be fine - I suppose with something like 'mount /dev/scd0' in it - and then set up a desktop icon to launch it?

I'd like to reduce the number of workspaces to one, and have a simple backup icon for user files etc.

Regards,

Nick

Juanito · Joined: 11 Sep 2006 Posts: 88 Location: Dubai, U.A.E.

Although it is meant for DSL (rather than DSL-N), the DSL Wiki would be the best place to start for info on DSL-N. See "http://damnsmalllinux.org/wiki/index.php/Main_Page"

You can access backup/restore from the DSL control panel icon. Just chose a place to store the backup and you're in business.

To mount a cd, you can use the following - substituting your drive for scd0:

#mkdir /mnt/scd0
#mount -t iso9660 /dev/scd0 /mnt/scd0

NickM · Joined: 22 Dec 2006 Posts: 3

Thanks again. I'm not sure how to find out what my CD Rom has been mapped to - I'll watch the boot up dialogue a bit more closely... and read the wiki to find out where to look for device assignments and how to specify devices on the command line.

Rgds,

Nick