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Introduction Determining your needs Basic Hardware Audio Video Video Card Configuration LIRC Input Devices TV/HDTV Tuner Cards Installing Linux HTPC Software HTPC Tips and Tricks Conclusion |
Linux HTPC How-toInstalling Linux for a HTPCPicking a Linux distributionThere are over 200 hundred Linux Distributions to choose from. I recommend using whichever distributions you are most comfortable with. I personally use Debian as it is very easy to install extra software and upgrade once the system is installed (But it is not the easiest distributions to install). There will be a HTPC distributions shortly that is based on Debian. Once it comes out I will update this how-to and at that point anyone, regardless of Linux knowledge, can have a Linux HTPC.If you are not familiar with Linux, I recommend either Suse or Redhat distributions. Suse is very user friendly and Redhat is popular. It is always possible to get a free Linux Distribution. Almost all major distribution companies have a free version of their Linux OS. Often you need to download 700MB of data and burn it to a CD in order to install them. Linux ISO's can be downloaded from LinuxISO.org. You can also buy a free Linux CD that is mostly just shipping that you pay for. Virtual Sky and Cheap Bytes are to places that ship free Linux distributions. I do recommend that if you are new to Linux to find someone that will give you advice on what to get and hopefully offer to help you install Linux if it is your first time. There are many LUG's (Linux User Groups) around the world that will offer Linux help for free. Linux.org/groups has a listing of most LUG's and information on how to become involved with them. Many LUG's meet once a month and are a great place to learn about Linux and get help or provide help to others. LUG's are completely free and are typically not-for-profit organizations. Installing the Linux HTPC distributionsThis distribution is still a work in progress. It should be out in a few months. |