Date: Mon, 12 Dec 2005 23:19:29 +0000 From: Chris Whitehouse <chris@childeric.freeserve.co.uk> Cc: freebsd-questions@FreeBSD.org Subject: Re: FreeBSD starter machine Message-ID: <439E0581.4020507@childeric.freeserve.co.uk> In-Reply-To: <20051212040744.66038.qmail@web54201.mail.yahoo.com> References: <20051212040744.66038.qmail@web54201.mail.yahoo.com>
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Matt S. Gann wrote: > I have a few questions about FreeBSD. I am just beginning to get into UNIX. I know a few line commands, but really want to get familiar and comfortable with the OS. I have been intrugued by FreeBSD for many years now, but I own a windows-based PC and am not keen about running dual OS's. I would like to get a cheap, used, small desktop or laptop to "tinker" with Unix/Linix and FreeBSD. However, I know little to nothing about system requirements and/or hardware compability. I was thinking of an old 486 or Pentium 1 to get started. Any thoughts on what I could start with? A way to use your current machine for both operating systems without dual booting is to install a second hard disk, install FreeBSD and select which to boot from in the bios. It's a slight faff changing boot disk but works fine and keeps the OS's completely separate. OT; I still have a PC I made with three HD's plugged in to a home made ide cable with an extra connector and a three position switch on the front which switches power to only one disk. All three disks are effectively primary master so whichever has power when the computer is turned on boots. I never had the courage to switch while the computer was running! Whichever way you go FreeBSD is a very rewarding OS. Chris
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