Suse 9.3 Linux on Laptop: Sony Vaio PCG-FX140
Conclusion: I have a completely different view of installing Suse linux 9.3 versus 9.0. I say it is now a snap to install, and the response and resource load are very reasonable. Other than making sure you update the BIOS, there seems to be nothing else you need to do.
BIOS Update: Firstly, if you own this computer, and want to load either Windows 2000 or some version of linux, I suggest you update the BIOS at vaio.net. You need to select "laptop" and the "FX series" in drop down lists. On the page you get for your model, look for the link "view more updates and drivers". My system was running Windows 2000 supported well, but I have "moved on" to a newer and more full-featured operating system.
Background: I am not a programmer, but I am comfortable navigating linux machines, editing configuration files and installing software "RPM" packages. With SuSE, I use the Control Center and YaST almost exclusively to maintain the computer.
Yada-yada: I noticed as early as Suse 9.2 that the Control Center (different than Yast) contained specific options for "Sony Vaio Laptop". This made me think it was worth another try. The graphical installation is easy to use and to change options with (like fixed IP's versus DHCP). If you use the 5 CD option instead of the 2 DVD option, consider having a good look through the software packages before installation starts. Choose everything you think you might use (for a home-type system). This will save you a lot of time feeding CD's into your machine later on. Below is a table of information from the Windows 2000 device manager and what was recognized under Suse 9.3. Yast still calls it the FX403, but at least it works now.
| Device | Windows description | Linux result - YaST..Hardware..Information |
|---|---|---|
| Computer | Advanced Configuration and Power Interface PC | Yast..HW..BIOS APM_Supported = NO |
| Display (1024x768) | Intel 82815 Graphics Controller | Intel I815. Just works. |
| DVD | Toshiba DVD-ROM SD-C2402 | Recognized. DVD crippled by Novell. |
| Hard Drive | Hitachi_DK23DA-20 | Recognized. Just works. |
| IEEE 1394 | Texas Instruments OHCI Compliant Controller | Not Tested |
| Modem | Conexant-Abit Soft56 Data, Fax ICH Modem | Recognized, calls for another package. Not Tested. |
| Modem | Ambicom AMB8802 PCMCIA modem | Recognized, not tested |
| Network | Intel Pro/100 VE NIC | Just works |
| Sound | SoundMax Integrated Digital Audio | Just Works |
| USB | USB Optical mouse; USB mass storage | Just works. Mouse, Cowon iAudio x5 ogg (mp3) player automounts. |
Notes: To get to the BIOS use the F2 key at boot.
To get to the hard drive, remove the speaker panel and then take off the keyboard.
