Category Archives: LINUX

Exton Linux distributions, LINUX

DebEX KDE with kernel 4.3.3 (latest) and KDE 4.14.2 and KDE Plasma Desktop 5:84

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debex-kde-desktop-160102-smallNEWS 160102
I have made a new version of DebEX KDE Live DVD. It replaces version 150830. It’s a pure Debian 8.2 system. I.e.: There are no Ubuntu or Kubuntu elements involved. DebEX KDE uses KDE 4.14.2 and KDE Plasma Desktop 5:84 as Desktop environment and kernel 4.3.0-5-exton. (Latest as of 160102). I have pre-installed Nvidia’s proprietary graphic driver 352.63. Furthermore Google Chrome to make it possible to watch Netflix movies. I’ve also added SMPlayer – an alternative to Vlc. (SMPlayer is a free media player for Windows and Linux with built-in codecs that can play virtually all video and audio formats. It doesn’t need any external codecs. Just install SMPlayer and you’ll be able to play all formats without the hassle to find and install codec packs). All other installed packages have also been updated to the latest version of 160102. Study the full package list.

Software management
DebEX (all three versions) uses Apt (apt-get) and Synaptic. I have also installed Pacapt (an Arch’s pacman-like package manager). It works extremely well. Available commands: pacapt -h. For example: pacapt -S libreoffice installs LibreOffice.

Runs from RAM
DebEX KDE can run from RAM. Use Boot alternative 2 (Copy to RAM). When the system has booted up you can remove the disc (DVD) or USB stick. You’ll need at least 2 GB RAM to run DebEX from RAM. I.e. superfast!

Screenshot of the KDE Plasma Desktop in version 160102 of DebEX KDE – pic1

Screenshot of the KDE Desktop with Netflix running in version 160102 of DebEX KDE – pic2

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Exton Linux distributions, LINUX

My new MeX Linux can run superfast from RAM – Build 151217

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mex-logo-smallMeX 64 bit Linux based on Linux Ubuntu 15.10 with Cinnamon 2.6.13

NEWS/CHANGES 151217
Mex Linux is no longer based on Linux Mint. MeX build 151217 is based only on Debian 8.2 and Ubuntu 15.10. I have replaced the original kernel with “my” special kernel 4.3.0-4-exton. All packages in MeX Linux have been upgraded to the latest version by 151217.

MORE NEWS 151217
1. The MeX ISO is now a ISO-hybrid, which means that it can very easily be transferred (copied) to a USB pen drive.
2. Another big improvement is that MeX now can run from RAM. Use Boot alternative 2 (Copy to RAM). When the system has booted up you can eject the disc (DVD)/USB stick. You’ll need at least 2 GB RAM to run MeX that way. The ISO file is of only 748 MB so MeX will run superfast from RAM!

Why not Linux Mint?
Latest Linux Mint (17.3 Rosa) is based on Ubuntu 14.04. I simply think the system it’s too old, even though I’m aware of that some people think that Ubuntu 14.04 is “better” than Ubuntu 15.10.

Why not Cinnamon 2.8?
Cinnamon, developed by the Linux Mint team, can be installed in version 2.8 also in Ubuntu 15.10. I decided not to do it since version 2.8 not yet is included in Ubuntu’s repositories. I guess there is a reason for it. Also the ISO file would have increased considerably in size if I had done it. Anyway you can do it yourself if you follow this instruction. The process is quite simple.

Used KERNEL (4.3.2)
The best thing with kernel 4.3 is that it has better support for the open-source Nvidia driver Nouveau than any other older kernel.

What’s new in kernel 4.3?

Screenshot 1 – Cinnamon 2.6.13 Desktop with Samba running

Screenshot 2 – Cinnamon 2.6.13 Desktop with Netflix running

Screenshot – Boot screen

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LINUX

Run your Ubuntu/Debian 64 bit system with the latest stable kernel!

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linuxI have compiled yet another Ubuntu/Debian kernel for 64 bit systems. This time kernel 4.3.0-4-exton, equivalent to Kernel.org’s latest stable kernel 4.3.2 released 151210.

What’s new in kernel 4.3?

Install kernel 4.3.0-4-exton in Ubuntu/Debian based distributions
My self-compiled Ubuntu kernels can be used in all types of modern Ubuntu systems, including Mint. They can even be used in Debian Jessie (Debian 8.2). If you want to use my kernel 4.3.0-4-exton for 64 bit systems, you can DOWNLOAD it from here.

md5sum for ubuntu-kernel-64bit-4.3.0-4-exton.zip which is of 65,7 MB.

Installation instructions
Open the zip-file with WinZip, WinRAR or 7-Zip. Or run this command: unzip ubuntu-kernel-64bit-4.3.0-4-exton.zip. Go into the folder ubuntu-kernel-64bit-4.3.0-4-exton and run this command:
sudo dpkg -i *.deb

Then: Run command sudo update-grub (if you use Grub2).

Nvidia
It is possible to install Nvidia’s proprietary drivers if you use “my” kernel 4.3.0-4-exton. Could be useful if you like to play games. Please read this instruction. The Nvidia drivers in for example Ubuntu’s repositories – “Current” etc. – can’t be used. It is supposed to be “impossible” to install Nvidia’s latest drivers when running kernel 4.0 – 4.3 without “patches” etc. On the other hand it’s a fact that kernel 4.3 has better support for the open-source Nvidia driver Nouveau than any other older kernel.

A small clarification
“My” kernel 4.3.0-4-exton is compiled exactly the same way as all official Ubuntu kernels. That is, The Ubuntu Way. If not, the kernel would not function in a Ubuntu/Debian system.

Good luck!

Exton Linux distributions, LINUX

SlackEX (Slackware 14.1) Live DVD Build 151211 with KDE and kernel 4.3.1-x86_64-exton

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slackware_logoSlackEX is based on Slackware 14.1. Slackware is the first widely-used Linux system, which is still developing. Slackware has existed since 1993.

New features in version 151211 of SlackEX
I have replaced kernel 4.1.1-x86_64-exton with kernel 4.3.1-x86_64-exton with support for “everything”. KDE is downgraded to version 4.10.5 from version 4.11.1. All other component software is also upgraded to the latest Slackware version by now. I may mention in particular GParted 0.24.0 (latest, not in Slackware’s repositories), VirtualBox 5.0.10 (latest, not in Slackware’s repositories), Google Chrome 46.0.2490.86 (latest, not in Slackware’s repositories),  AbiWord 2.8.6 (not in Slackware’s repositories), Gimp 2.8.10 (installed from source), GSlapt 0.5.3h, Firefox 31.7, Thunderbird 31.6, Samba 3.6.8 and GCC 4.8.2. Furthermore I have installed Grub2, which can be used as boot loader (if you want) after a hard drive install. Study the full package LIST.

Why Slackware?
Slackware is grossly underestimated (in my opinion). This article give you ten (10) reasons to choose Slackware.

Screenshot 1 – KDE 4.10.5 Desktop

Screenshot 2 – KDE 4.10.5 Desktop

Screenshot 3 – Netflix running

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LINUX

Run your Slackware 64 bit system with the latest stable kernel – 4.3.1!

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SlackwareI have compiled a very useful (as I think) 64 bit kernel for Slackware 14.1 and/or all Slackware derivatives. For example Slax, Zenwalk and SlackEX. The kernel is compiled exactly the same way as Slackware’s latest kernel huge. “My” kernel 4.3.1-x86_64-exton has even more support for new hardware, etc. Kernel 4.3.1 is the latest stable kernel available from Kernel.org. Released yesterday (20151209).

What’s new in kernel 4.3.1?

If you want to install my kernel in your Slackware 64 bit system, do this:

1. Download linux-kernel-4.3.1-x86_64-exton.txz – md5sum
2. Install it with the command installpkg linux-kernel-4.3.1-x86_64-exton.txz
(The kernel is packed just like Slackware’s original kernels so that everything ends up in the right place)
4. If necessary, change your Grub Legacy/Grub2 configuration
5. If you have an Nvidia graphics card in your computer, you may need to look over your files in /etc/modprobe.d before restarting the computer. That is remove the “blacklisting” of Nouveau’s kernel module in the appropriate files blacklist.conf and nvidia-installer-disable-nouveau.conf. With “my” kernel functions the Nouveau “free” driver works just fine.

NOTE: When you run the command installpkg linux-kernel-4.3.1-x86_64-exton.txz vmlinuz will be “created” in /boot. If you have /boot/vmlinuz already that file will be overwritten. In case you want to switch back to your old kernel you should make a backup of /boot/vmlinuz before you run the just mentioned command.

Restart your computer and enjoy!

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Exton Linux distributions, LINUX

PuppEX (Puppy Slacko64) Live DVD with kernel 4.3.0-x86_64-puppex

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PuppEX Slacko 64 bit is a remaster of Puppy Linux Slacko64 6.3.0, released on November 16, 2015. Kernel 4.3.0-x86_64-puppex is used. Kernel 4.3 is the latest available stable kernel from Kernel.org as of 151130. PuppEX uses the original Puppy Slacko64 Desktop. I have added PCManFM and LXTerminal. They are more useful than ROX-Filer respectively RXVT, I think. The ISO file is on the whole 766 MB, which is due to me including also NVIDIA Graphics driver 352.63, Gimp, Vlc Media Player 2.2.1 installed from source (so you can run it as root), Google Chrome 46.0.2490.86 (for Netflix), Adobe Flash and compiling tools. Puppy Slacko original is of only 234 MB. PuppEX is despite this still running as fast as the original, which means it runs very, very fast compared to most other Linux systems. (Puppy/PuppEX runs from RAM).

Compatible with Slackware 14.1
The beauty of Puppy Slacko64 is that programs that are available for Slackware 14.1 also can be easily installed and run in Puppy Slacko64 (and thus also in PuppEX).

MOST IMPORTANT CHANGES
I’ve changed kernel from 4.1.11 to 4.3.0-x86_64-puppex and installed NVIDIA Graphics driver 352.63. The Nvidia driver will be used if your computer/card is “modern” enough. I’ve also added Vlc and Google Chrome (just as I said to make it possible to watch Netflix movies).

Study ALL installed packages in PuppEX

See a screenshot of the Desktop and  one when Google Chrome with Netflix is running

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Exton Linux distributions, LINUX

CruxEX (CRUX) 3.2 64bit Linux live cd/usb with kernel 4.3.0 and LXDE

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CruxEX 3.2 64 bit Linux Live CD/USB is based on CRUX 3.2 (latest version, released 151123), which is all Linux enthusiasts/nerds favorite OS. (CRUX 3.2 is a lightweight Linux distribution for the x86-64 architecture targeted at experienced Linux users). CruxEX 3.2 2016 uses the LXDE Desktop environment. I have replaced the original CRUX kernel with “my” special kernel 4.3.0-x86_64-cruxex, with support for “extra everything”.

NEWS ABOUT CruxEX Build 151128
To my horror I discovered that I had forgot to install the Graphics drivers VESA, ATI and VMware in Build 151125. They are now included in Build 151128. I’ve also finally discovered a way to install GParted in CRUX. GParted version 0.24.0 (latest) is now included in Build 151128. GParted is quite useful, wouldn’t you agree?

Kernel etc
Kernel 4.3.0 is the latest available stable kernel as of 151125. Among all installed and updated applications are Firefox, Gimp and Wicd. Furthermore compilation tools so that you can install programs from source.

NEWS 151125
CruxEX 2016 is distributed both as an ISO file and a Zip file. Install my new version of CruxEX 3.2 64bit from 151125 to a USB Pen Drive and save your system changes – read this INSTRUCTION. If you later on decide you want to install CruxEX to hard drive from the USB Pen Drive all your system changes will also be installed to the hard drive. Or burn the ISO file to a CD and run CruxEX live the “normal” way. Mainly the ISO file is for all of you who like to run and test Linux systems in VirtualBox (before installing the systems to hard drive).

Nvidia Graphics driver
I have also installed Nvidia Graphics driver 352.63 in this version of CruxEX. It has support for the following GPUs (among others): Quadro K1200, Quadro M6000, GeForce 920M, GeForce 930A, GeForce 930M, GeForce 940M, GeForce GTX 950M, GeForce GTX 960M and GeForce GTX TITAN X.

More about CruxEX 3.2 version 151128
All packages have been upgraded to the latest available version (with prt-get sysup). Furthermore: This version uses kernel 4.3.0 released 151102!

What’s new in kernel 4.3?

Unique
CruxEX 3.2 2016 build 151128 is – as my previous CRUX-remasters – unique in the world. I.e. there is no other CRUX Live CD/USB in any language (as far as I know). In any case, not for downloading.

See a screenshot of CruxEX’s Desktop

Study ALL installed packages…

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Exton Linux distributions, LINUX

ArchEX Dual (Arch Linux) Live DVD with kernel 4.2.5-1-ARCH

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arch_logoWHAT IS ArchEX dual?
ArchEX 64bit/32bit dual is a new (151117) Linux live DVD based on Arch Linux. Arch motto is KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid). ArchEX uses kernel 4.2.5-1-ARCH and the LXDE Desktop environment.

NEWS 151118: How to install ArchEX 64bit or 32bit to a USB stick with persistence
Today (151118) I’ve discovered a way to install ArchEX to a USB stick and enjoy persistence. I.e. all your system changes will be saved directly on the stick. Read my instruction.

NEWS IN BUILD 151117
ArchEX Installer is totally new. It is still an menu driven installer, but it gives you more control over the installation process. You can for example choose locale/language during the installation. I have also added GParted so you can create your partitions in advance.

INSTALLED SOFTWARE
Among many other programs, Firefox, Gimp, GCC, Wicd and GParted – see this package LIST.

WHO should run Arch Linux?
My answer: The system fits the “advanced” Linux user/enthusiast, who would be willing to run an occasional command from time to time.

Screenshot of ArchEX LXDE Desktop
Screenshot 2 of ArchEX LXDE Desktop (running Spotify)

When you have installed ArchEX to hard drive or to a USB stick you can go on and install the Cinnamon and/or KDE Plasma Desktops (if you want).
Screenshot when Cinnamon is running in ArchEX
Screenshot when KDE is running in ArchEX
Or perhaps you prefer the Xfce4 Desktop Environment – screenshot – or Enlightenment – screenshot.

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Exton Linux distributions, LINUX

EXTON OpSuS (openSUSE 42.1) KDE 64 bit Linux Live USB – Build 151112

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suseEXTON OpSuS 42.1 KDE is based on openSUSE Leap 42.1, released 20151104.

ABOUT
EXTON OpSuS KDE uses kernel 4.1.12-1 and KDE 4.14.10. Installed programs: Among many other programs, Firefox, Thunderbird, Gimp, SMPlayer, NetworkManager, GParted and LibreOffice. You’ll run the system as root or as the ordinary user live. Root’s and live’s password is root/live. EXTON OpSuS can easily be installed to hard drive (of those who so desire). That is directly while running the system from a USB stick. All programs have been updated to the latest available stable version as of November 12, 2015. The system language is English.

Installing to a USB stick with persistence and then to hard drive
After installing EXTON OpSuS 42.1 to a USB stick, you can change the system completely and then install the system to a hard drive. You can also continue to have it only on the USB stick and run EXTON OpSuS (all three versions) on any computer you want. If you install EXTON OpSuS on a large enough (and fast) USB stick, you can go ahead and install for example LXDE, Mate or Xfce4. All your system changes are automatically saved to the USB stick.

Google Chrome and Netflix
To be able to watch Netflix movies in Linux you’ll need the Google Chrome Browser. It can be installed in EXTON OpSuS. Just follow this instruction.

Why should someone choose EXTON OpSuS/openSUSE?

Screenshot – EXTON OpSuS 42.1 Desktop

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Exton Linux distributions, LINUX, Raspberry systems

RaspArch Build 151107 :: Run Arch Linux on your Raspberry Pi 2

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rasparch-logoThis version (151107) is my second build of RaspArch
The first version is from 150414. RaspArch is a “remaster” of Arch Linux ARM. The original compressed system is of 231 MB. After I have added the LXDE Desktop environment, Firefox and Gimp the system increased to 492 MB. RaspArch is a “ready-to-go” ARM system. It must be installed on a Raspberry Pi 2 computer.

NEWS 151107
A new version of RaspArch is ready. The compressed file rasparch-exton.tar.gz from 151105 was compressed with Archive Manager in Ubuntu 15.10. Something is wrong with this program. I had to compress the folder manually. I.e. using the command tar -zcvf rasparch-exton.tar.gz rasparch-exton. The compressed folder has decreased in size from 851 MB (151105) to 492 MB(!?).

More about RaspArch
When you have installed RaspArch to your Micro SD Card you can use the system like any other Arch Linux system. I.e. install new programs etc. Arch motto is KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid). RaspArch uses kernel 4.1.12-1-ARCH and the LXDE Desktop environment.

WHO should run Arch Linux/RaspArch?
My answer: The system fits the “advanced” Linux user/enthusiast, who would be willing to run an occasional command from time to time.

rasparch-desktop-151105-small

BENEFITS of Arch Linux/RaspArch
“Cutting Edge”-software and speed. A member on this site recently wrote this about RaspArch: I’ve used Slackware, Debian, Gentoo, Ubuntu & Arch. I prefer Arch. Ubuntu is easier to install, Arch is easier to keep up to date. You do not go through big, painful, changes every year instead you just update, once in a while, make changes if instructed. Arch has most of the benefits of Gentoo without the pain of recompiling _everything_. When you do need to build a package in Arch its painless especially if you use one of the tools that support Aur (I like yaourt). Arch avoids the politics of Debian and Ubuntu and delivers a great Linux distribution. RaspArch now brings these advantages to the PI 2.

Study all installed packages in RaspArch

Screenshot of RaspArch’s Desktop

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