Tag Archives: Refracta Snapshot

DebEX Budgie/Enlightenment – Build 191123 – with Budgie Desktop 10.5 (latest), Enlightenment 0.23.1 (latest) and kernel 5.4.0-rc8-exton (latest)

About DebEX Barebone Budgie/Enlightenment, DebEX Gnome and DebEX KDE Plasma Linux 64 bit
All three systems/distributions are a based on Debian Buster (10) and Debian Bullseye/Sid (upcoming Debian 11). Budgie Desktop 10.5 and Enlightenment 0.23.1 are used as Desktop environments in DebEX Barebone/Budgie/Enlightenment. Gnome 3.30 is used in DebEX GnomeKDE Plasma Desktop 5:14 is used in DebEX KDE. The system language is English (in all three versions of DebEX).

NEWS 191123 about DebEX Budgie/Enlightenment – a Refracta Build
A new version of DebEX Barebone with Budgie Desktop 10.5, Enlightenment 0.23.1 and kernel 5.4.0-rc8-exton (equivalent to Kernel.org’s latest kernel 5.4-rc8) is ready. All packages have been updated to the latest version as of November 23, 2019. DebEX Barebone is now based on Debian Buster (Debian 10).

Most important Changes
I’ve added Enlightenment 0.23.1 as an extra Desktop environment. That makes this version of DebEX unique, since there is no other live distro with Enlightenment 0.23.1 installed. Version 0.23.1 (released 190926) is not yet included in Debian’s repositories. I’ve thus installed Enlightenment 0.23.1 from source. The ISO is of only 1310 MB, which makes it easy to run the system live from RAM. That ability allows DebEX Budgie/Enlightenment to be very fast, since reading and writing data from/to RAM is much faster than on a hard disk drive. You can use the Calamares 3.2.4-3 Installer Framework to install DebEX Budgie/Enlightenment to your computer in any language. You can even use Calamares in VirtualBox and VMware – i.e. non-efi computers. Watch this animated GIF. NOTE also: When starting up DebEX Budgie/Enlightenment and entering the Enlightenment 0.23.1 Desktop you will get an error message as this screenshot shows. The error is fixed by running the following commands: chmod 777 .cache/efreet and sudo chmod 777 /root/.cache/efreet. After installing DebEX to hard drive you won’t get any error messages.

SCREENSHOTS
1. The Enlightenment Desktop for user user
2. The Boot menu when running DebEX live
3. The Boot menu when running DebEX from hard drive
4. The Enlightenment Desktop for user user – 2
5. The Budgie Desktop for root
6. The Budgie Desktop for the ordinary user user
7.  A Samba connection in DebEX Budgie/Enlightenment

READ MORE…

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at

andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX Pie 9.0 (with GAPPS) and AndEX Oreo 8.1 (also with GAPPS)!
and
about my Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 3/2 at
raspex.exton.se – latest is RaspAnd Pie 9.0 (without GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1 (with GAPPS)!

ExLight 64bit EFI, Build 191120, based on Debian 10 “Buster” with Enlightenment 0.22.4-2, Refracta Snapshot, Calamares and kernel 5.4.0-rc8-exton

NEWS 191120 ABOUT ExLight
I’ve made a new version of ExLight with the Enlightenment 0.22.4-2 Desktop environment and Calamares 3.2.4-3 Installer Framework .

New sources 191120
This new version of ExLight is based on Debian stable 10 Buster. Build 191120 is a total rebuild of ExLight. The ISO file size is of only 1010 MB, which means that ExLight now can run even faster from RAM. I.e. load to RAM – screenshot.

KERNEL
ExLight Build 191120 uses kernel 5.4.0-rc8-exton, corresponding Kernel.org‘s latest kernel 5.4-rc8.

What’s new in kernel 5.4?

Installed packages
Study all installed packages in ExLight Build 191120.

MOVIE about Calamares Installer
Watch a movie
about the Calamares installation process in VirtualBox. You can use the Calamares 3.2.4-3 Installer Framework to install ExLight to your computer in any language. You can even use Calamares in VirtualBox and VMware – i.e. non-efi computers. Watch this animated GIF. (It’s for DebEX Budgie, but works in the same way in ExLight).

Or watch this slideshow made today (191120).

THE REAL McCoy
ExLight is a pure Debian system. I.e. no traces of Ubuntu, Kubuntu etc. New releases of Ubuntu are always based on Debian. So is ExLight.

SCREENSHOTS
1. The Enlightenment 0.22.4-2 Desktop for root – using WPA supplicant
2. The Enlightenment 0.22.4-2 Desktop for the ordinary user user
3. Connection from ExLight to a Windows computer
4. Using ConnMan for WiFi connections

READ MORE…

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at

andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX Pie 9.0 (with GAPPS) and AndEX Oreo 8.1 (also with GAPPS)!
and
about my Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 3/2 at
raspex.exton.se – latest is RaspAnd Pie 9.0 (without GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1 (with GAPPS)!

LFA (Linux For All) 64bit Build 191111 with LXDE, TeamViewer, Google Chrome, Refracta Snapshot and kernel 5.4.0-rc6-exton

About Linux For All (LFA) Build 191111
The system is based on Ubuntu 18.04.3 LTS and Debian. It’s a total rebuild. I.e. nothing is left of the old LFA system.

Why Ubuntu 18.04.3 LTS?
Ubuntu 18.04 is supported until April 2023. Ubuntu 19.10 is supported until July 2020 only.

NEWS ABOUT LFA Build 191111

1. This is a very BIG system (2120MB). All packages the ordinary Linux user can wish for are pre-installed. Study the full packages list.
2. Kernel 5.4.0-rc6-exton is used.
3. I have installed Nvidia’s latest proprietary graphics driver 440.31.
4. The Desktop environment is LXDEDesigned to be user friendly and slim, while keeping the resource usage low.
5. The main Web Browser is Google Chrome. So you can watch Netflix! Another advantage with Google Chrome is that you will get all your bookmarks if you log in with your Gmail account.
6. I have included Refracta tools (Refracta Snapshot) to make it possible for you to create your own installable Ubuntu 18.04.3 LTS Live DVD once you have installed LFA to hard drive. This is done in the easiest possible way!
7. Use TeamViewer (pre-installed) to control your Windows computers from LFA. Or control LFA from your Windows computers.

What’s new in kernel 5.4?

Using TeamViewer
Use TeamViewer (pre-installed) to control your Windows computers from LFA. Or control LFA from your Windows computers.
Screenshot 1 – LFA “running” Windows 10
Screenshot 2 – Windows 10 “running” LFA
How to use TeamViewer – A Complete Guide…

SCREENSHOTS
Screenshot 1 – LFA “running” Windows 10 with TeamViewer
Screenshot 2 – Windows 10 “running” LFA with TeamViewer
Screenshot 3 – LFA running Samba to reach Windows computers
Screenshot 4 – LFA running Google Chrome and Netflix
Screenshot 5 – TeamViewer setup in LFA
Screenshot 6 – Running Nvidia Settings

READ MORE…

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at

andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX Pie 9.0 (with GAPPS) and AndEX Oreo 8.1 (also with GAPPS)!
and
about my Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 3/2 at
raspex.exton.se – latest is RaspAnd Pie 9.0 (without GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1 (with GAPPS)!

Run Raspberry Pi’s PIXEL Desktop on a PC or Mac – an Exton modified Build 191102 with Refracta Snapshot (so you can create your own Raspberrypi Debian 10 Pixel system)

NEWS 191102 about Raspberry Pi Debian 10 Pixel – 32bit – an Exton Build
My previous Debian Pixel Build from is from 190705 . Study all included packages in Build 191102- latest by 191102. I’ve added NetworkManager and also Wicd, which makes it easier to configure wireless connections. Choose the one which works for you.

Reason for a new Raspberry Pi Debian 10 Pixel build right now
Yesterday (191101) two members on this site wrote to me saying that Refracta Installer didn’t work for them. I checked it and they were right. The Refracta Installer had to be upgraded from version 9.3.3 to version 9.5.3. While I was at it I also upgraded Refracta Snapshot to the latest version – 10.2.9.

Most important changes in Build 191102
This build replaces version 161223 , 170425, 180316, 180928 and 190705 . I’ve upgraded Raspbian/Debian from Stretch to Buster – Debian 10 stable. I’ve also upgraded the kernel from 4.19.0-5-686-pae to 4.19.0-6-686-pae. I’ve also included kernel 4.19.0-6-686, which shall be used on older computers. PAE (Physical Address Extension) increases the physical memory addressable by the system from 4 GB to 64 GB. Firefox have been installed so you’ll have a browser when logged in as root. You can’t run Chromium as root. Another good thing about Firefox is that you can use it to watch Netflix movies.

NEWS 180928 – a YouTube video about Debian Pixel
I’ve discovered a YouTube video about my Debian Pixel Build 170425. The video is called Debian Pixel..Exton forks it for you..
This video is of course also valid for Build 190705 and 180928. By watching the video you can learn a lot about Debian Pixel’s features.

OLD NEWS FROM 161223

On December 22, 2016 I read that the Raspberry Pi Foundation had announced the release of a new PIXEL image that can be booted on a PC or Mac. Study this site. I saw immediately that there was no installer included, which I thought was a little disappointing. Come to think of Refracta Tools, which work very well in Debian and Ubuntu. I quickly made a “remix” of the Raspberry Pi Foundation PIXEL image. My remix thus include Refracta Tools. This means that you can easily install the system to hard drive and you can just as easily make your own remix of the Raspberry Pi Foundation PIXEL image. I’ve added a few packages. Most important Synaptic, which I find essential.

About the PIXEL Desktop
Raspbian had its biggest update ever in September, 2016, thanks to a dazzling new desktop environment called PIXEL. Raspbian with PIXEL (which stands for “Pi Improved Xwindow Environment, Lightweight”) is a huge software update to the desktop environment. It introduces a crisp new interface, and is brimming with new programs and features.

VirtualBox and VMware
My build/image works very well in VirtualBox and VMware. I.e. you can run the system directly from the ISO file and also install it to a virtual hard drive. You can of course also make your own Raspbian/Debian system with the the PIXEL Desktop using Refracta Snapshot (pre-installed).

KERNEL
Kernel 4.19.0-6-686-pae is used in Build 191102. PAE (Physical Address Extension) increases the physical memory addressable by the system from 4 GB to 64 GB. If you want to run the system (which is 32bit) on older computers you shall use kernel 4.19.0-6-686, which also is included.

Login and passwords
Log in to the PIXEL Desktop as the ordinary user pi or as root. The passwords are raspberrypi respectively root. When logged in as pi you can use Sudo to become root. (Command: sudo su). When running Debian Pixel live (from a DVD or a USB stick) you’ll end up (after the boot process) logged in automatically as the user pi in X (PIXEL Desktop).

Windows Virtual Desktop on Azure
For smoother RaspberryPI performance a virtual PC such as azure windows virtual desktop which can be the best option due to its high end functionality and 24*7 top-notch support from a reliable desktop as a service provider.

Runs from RAM
Another great thing is that this build can run from RAM. Use Boot alternative 3 (load to RAM). When the system has booted up you can remove the disc (DVD) or the USB stick. You’ll need at least 4 GB RAM to run the system that way. I.e. super fast!

Spotify
You may want to run Spotify. In this version of Debian Pixel you can’t install Spotify with the command sudo apt install spotify-client. Too many unfulfilled dependencies. You can, however, run Spotify Web Player. Use Firefox for that. Watch a screenshot when Spotify Web Player is running.

Important about Refracta
You can use the Refracta Snapshot (pre-installed) to create your own installable Raspberry Pi Debian 10 PIXEL system once you have installed my build to hard drive. I mean change everything and then create a whole new Debian live system. Start Refracta from Menu >> System tools >> Refracta snapshot. You don’t even have to install my build to hard drive before you can use the Refracta Snapshot. If you have plenty of RAM you can create a new (your own!) Debian PIXEL system while running my build from DVD or a USB stick. Please note that the whole Refracta process (creating your new ISO file) will only take 20 – 60 min! Please edit the configuration file /etc/refractasnapshot.conf first. Change line 45 and 46. I.e. decide where you want the ISO file to be build. The whole thing is very simple. NOTE: You can also do everything in VirtualBox or VMware. Use FileZilla (pre-installed) to transfer your new ISO file to your server. Or use Samba to transfer the ISO file to one of your Windows computers in your home Network – screenshot. NOTE: Do it while logged in as root.

Install to Debian PIXEL hard drive
Just start Refracta Installer from Menu >> System tools >> Refracta Installer and follow the instructions. Very simple.

Install Debian PIXEL to a USB stick
You can use Rufus in Windows. Persistence can’t be enabled though. You can also use UNetbootin in Windows or Linux. The best way to do it is to burn Debian PIXEL to a DVD, start up the system from the DVD and then use Refracta Installer for the installation. Choose to install Grub in MBR on /dev/sdb. (Normally your USB stick, but check it carefully!) I.e. you will get a chance to choose between /dev/sda and /dev/sdb. This method will (of course) give you perfect persistence.

Watch the slideshow below showing the Refracta installation process in Debian PIXEL.

Windows Virtual Desktop on Azure
For smoother RaspberryPI performance a virtual PC such as azure windows virtual desktop which can be the best option due to its high end functionality and 24*7 top-notch support from a reliable desktop as a service provider.

SCREENSHOTS
Screenshot 1 – Spotify running
Screenshot 2 – Samba running (reach your Windows computers in your network)
Screenshot 3 – Refracta Snapshot has started
Screenshot 4 – Refracta Installer has started in VMware
Screenshot 5 – Wireless connection with NetworkManager and Wicd (installed in Build 170425, 180316, 180928, 190705 and 191102)
Screenshot 6 – WiFi connection using NetworkManager – in detail

DOWNLOAD
This build has been replaced by Build 201108…
Raspberry Pi is a trademark of Raspberry Pi Foundation

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at
andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX 10 (with GAPPS) and AndEX Pie 9.0 (also with GAPPS)!
and

about my Android 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 3/2 at
raspex.exton.se
– latest is RaspAnd 11 (without GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1 (with GAPPS)!

ExTiX 19.10, Build 191023, with LXQt 0.14.1, Refracta Snapshot, Nvidia 430.50 and kernel 5.3.7-extix

ExTiX 19.10 LXQt – Build 191023
I have made a new version of ExTiX – The Ultimate Linux System. I call it ExTiX 19.10 LXQt Live DVD. (The previous LXQt version was 19.5 from 190508). The best thing with ExTiX 19.10 is that while running the system live (from DVD/USB) or from hard drive you can use Refracta Snapshot (pre-installed) to create your own live installable Ubuntu system. So easy that a ten year child can do it! One other very good thing with this version of ExTiX is that it is quite light. The ISO file is of only 1200 MB, which means that you can run the system super fast from RAM. When the boot process is ready you can eject the DVD or USB stick. Use Boot alternative 2 or Advanced options… >> load to RAM. Nvidia’s proprietary Graphics driver 430.50 is pre-installed in ExTiX 19.10. It will automatically be used if your computer has support for it

ABOUT
ExTiX 19.10
LXQt DVD 64 bit is based on Debian and Ubuntu 19.10. The original system includes the Desktop Environment Gnome. After removing Gnome I have installed LXQt 0.14.1. LXQt is the Qt port and the upcoming version of LXDE, the Lightweight Desktop Environment. It is the product of the merge between the LXDE-Qt and the Razor-qt projects: A lightweight, modular, blazing-fast and user-friendly desktop environment. NOTE: This ExTiX LXQt Build is for installation to UEFI-enabled computers. You shall use Refracta Installer for that.

The system language is ENGLISH.

SCREENSHOTS
1. ExTiX LXQt – root’s Desktop
2. ExTiX LXQt – live’s Desktop
3. Using Refracta Installer – chroot for installing Grub
4. live’s Desktop using the Nvidia Graphics driver
5. Connection with a Windows computer via PCManFM-Qt

READ MORE…

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at

andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX Pie 9.0 (with GAPPS) and AndEX Oreo 8.1 (also with GAPPS)!
and
about my Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 3/2 at
raspex.exton.se – latest is RaspAnd Pie 9.0 (without GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1 (with GAPPS)!

SlackEX 14.2 64bit – Build 191007 – with Refracta Snapshot (so that you can create your very own live installable Slackware system)

About SlackEX 14.2, 64 bit, Build 191007

Slackware is the first widely-used Linux system, which is still developing. Slackware has existed since 1993. In comparison with for example Ubuntu and Linux Mint, many people believe that Slackware is “difficult”. Any novice can quickly learn to use Ubuntu they say. My remaster of Slackware Current (14.2), which I call SlackEX 14.2/Current 64 bit Linux Live DVD, is however just as easy to use as Ubuntu and/or Linux Mint. Some tend to complain that the Program Management in Slackware is awkward. That was perhaps earlier the case, but not anymore. Now we have the Application Managers Slackpkg and GSlapt – a GTK version of slapt-get. They are a piece of cake to use! Users of Synaptic will feel at ease with GSlapt.

New features in version 191007 of SlackEX
I have replaced kernel 4.14.8-x86_64-efi-exton with kernel 5.3.0-exton so that Refracta Snapshot can be used. Using Refracta Snapshot you can change everything and create your very own live installable Slackware system. Read more about Refracta below. Xfce 4 is used as Desktop environment.  Furthermore I have installed Grub2, which can be used as boot loader (if you want) after a hard drive install using Refracta Installer. A lot of other Slackware packages are pre-installed. Study the full package LIST. Note: I have replaced Wicd with NetworkManager. It works better.

Watch Refracta Snapshot in action below.


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

SCREENSHOTS
Screenshot 1 – root’s Desktop when Refracta Installer has started
Screenshot 2 – live’s Desktop with GSlapt running
Screenshot 3 – Refracta Snapshot has started
Screenshot 4 – Boot screen when running live
Screenshot 5 – Boot screen when running from hard drive
Screenshot 6 – SlackEX running from hard drive in VMware Workstation 15 Player when VMware Tools have been installed

READ MORE…

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at

andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX Pie 9.0 (with GAPPS) and AndEX Oreo 8.1 (also with GAPPS)!
and
about my Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 3/2 at
raspex.exton.se – latest is RaspAnd Pie 9.0 (without GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1 (with GAPPS)!

DebEX KDE Plasma based on Debian testing/unstable with kernel 5.3.0-exton and Calamares Installer – “the real McCoy” – Build 190923

Created with GIMP

NEWS 190923 about DebEX KDE Plasma – a Refracta Build
I have made a new version of DebEX KDE Plasma Live DVDefi. It replaces version 190407. It’s a pure Debian system. (Unstable/Experimental). I.e.: There are no Ubuntu or Kubuntu elements involved. DebEX KDE Plasma uses the KDE Plasma Desktop 5:14 as Desktop environment. Kernel 5.3.0-exton (5.3) is used. I have replaced Wicd with NetworkManager. It works better. I have replaced Google Chrome with Iceweasel 52.9 (for Netflix). 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 190923. Study the full package list. MOST IMPORTANT CHANGE: I have added Calamares 3.2.13-1 Installer Framework. Now you can choose language when the installation starts. When it’s ready everything will be in your chosen language! You can even use Calamares in VirtualBox and VMware – i.e. non-efi computers if you follow my INSTRUCTION for non-efi computers. You can also use Refracta Installer. Preferably in VirtualBox/VMware (non-efi computers).

MOVIE about Calamares Installer
Watch a movie
about the Calamares installation process in VirtualBox.

What’s new in kernel 5.3?

THE REAL McCoy
DebEX KDE is a pure Debian system. I.e. no traces of Ubuntu, Kubuntu etc. New releases of Ubuntu are always based on Debian unstable. So is DebEX.

SCREENSHOTS
Root’s Desktop in version 190923 of DebEX KDE
User’s Desktop in version 190923 of DebEX KDE
Calamares Installer is running

READ MORE…

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at

andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX Pie 9.0 (with GAPPS) and AndEX Oreo 8.1 (also with GAPPS)!
and
about my Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 3/2 at
raspex.exton.se – latest is RaspAnd Pie 9.0 (without GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1 (with GAPPS)!

ExTiX Deepin 19.8 live based on Deepin 15.11 (latest) with Skype, Spotify, Refracta Snapshot and kernel 5.3.0-rc6 (latest) :: Build 190828

NEWS 190828 ABOUT ExTiX Deepin
I’ve released a new version of ExTiX Deepin today (190828). This ExTiX Build is based on Deepin 15.11 released by Deepin Technology 190719.

NEW FUNCTIONS etc
1.You can run ExTiX from RAM. Use boot alternative 3 (load to RAM) or Advanced. A wonderful way to run Linux if you have enough RAM. Everything will be super fast. When ExTiX has booted up you can remove the DVD or USB stick.
2. You will have the opportunity to choose language before you enter the Deepin 15.11 Desktop. All main languages are supported.
3. I have replaced Deepin Installer with the Reborn version of Deepin Installer. Better in every way.
4. I have replaced kernel 5.0.8-extix with kernel 5.3.0-rc6-exton. Kernel 5.3.0-rc6 was released 190826.
5. Spotify and Skype are pre-installed.
6. You can watch Netflix while running Google Chrome.

MORE NEWS 190828 ABOUT ExTiX Deepin 19.8
I’ve released a new version of ExTiX Deepin today with Refracta Snapshot and kernel 5.3.0-rc6-exton. Deepin 15.11 (latest version released 190719) is made in China. Deepin is devoted to providing a beautiful, easy to use, safe and reliable system for global users. Previous versions of ExTiX Deepin were based on Debian and Ubuntu. ExTiX 19.8 is a live build of Deepin 15.11, which is based on Debian unstable. All packages have been updated to the latest available version as of today. Study all installed packages in ExTiX Deepin 19.8 Build 190828. So ExTiX 19.8 is based on Deepin 15.11 and Debian unstable. I may add that there is no other live version of Deepin 15.11 (as far as I know).

Replacement
ExTiX Deepin 19.8 replaces ExTiX 19.4.

The Ultimate Linux System
I’ve called my different versions of ExTiX The Ultimate Linux System for many years by now. As regards ExTiX 19.8 Deepin I feel it’s especially justified. Everything just works.

Refracta Snapshot
While running ExTiX Deepin 19.8 live or from hard drive you can use Refracta Snapshot (pre-installed) to create your own live installable Deepin/Debian system. A ten year child can do it!

Used KERNEL
My special kernel 5.3.0-rc6-exton corresponding Kernel.org’s latest kernel 5.3.0-rc6 released 190826.

What’s new in Linux kernel 5.3?

SCREENSHOTS
1. ExTiX Deepin 15.11 Desktop
2. ExTiX Deepin being installed in VirtualBox using Refracta Installer
3. The installation in VirtualBox is completed
3. ExTiX Deepin login screen (LightDM)
4. Movie showing how to enable Window effects

READ MORE…

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at

andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX Pie 9.0 (without GAPPS) and AndEX Oreo 8.1 (with GAPPS)!

and about my Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 3/2 at
raspex.exton.se – latest is RaspAnd Pie 9.0 (without GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1 (with GAPPS)!

Run Raspberry Pi’s PIXEL Desktop on a PC or Mac – an Exton modified Build 190705 with Refracta Tools (so you can create your own Raspberrypi Debian 10 Pixel system)

NEWS 190705 about Raspberry Pi Debian 10 Pixel – 32bit – an Exton Build
My previous Debian Pixel Build from is from 180928 . Study all included packages in Build 190705- latest by 190705. I’ve added NetworkManager and also Wicd, which makes it easier to configure wireless connections. Choose the one which works for you.

NEWS 180928 – a YouTube video about Debian Pixel
I’ve discovered a YouTube video about my Debian Pixel Build 170425. The video is called Debian Pixel..Exton forks it for you..
This video is of course also valid for Build 190705 and 180928. By watching the video you can learn a lot about Debian Pixel’s features.

Most important changes in Build 190705
This build replaces version 161223 , 170425, 180316 and 180928 . I’ve upgraded Raspbian/Debian from Stretch to Buster – Debian 10 stable to be officially released tomorrow (190706). I’ve also upgraded the kernel from 4.9.0-9-686-pae to 4.19.0-5-686-pae. I’ve also included kernel 4.19.0-5-686, which shall be used on older computers. PAE (Physical Address Extension) increases the physical memory addressable by the system from 4 GB to 64 GB. Firefox have been installed so you’ll have a browser when logged in as root. You can’t run Chromium as root. Another good thing about Firefox is that you can use it to watch Netflix movies.

OLD NEWS FROM 161223

On December 22, 2016 I read that the Raspberry Pi Foundation had announced the release of a new PIXEL image that can be booted on a PC or Mac. Study this site. I saw immediately that there was no installer included, which I thought was a little disappointing. Come to think of Refracta tools, which work very well in Debian and Ubuntu. I quickly made a “remix” of the Raspberry Pi Foundation PIXEL image. My remix thus include Refracta tools. This means that you can easily install the system to hard drive and you can just as easily make your own remix of the Raspberry Pi Foundation PIXEL image. I’ve added a few packages. Most important Synaptic, which I find essential.

About the PIXEL Desktop
Raspbian had its biggest update ever in September, 2016, thanks to a dazzling new desktop environment called PIXEL. Raspbian with PIXEL (which stands for “Pi Improved Xwindow Environment, Lightweight”) is a huge software update to the desktop environment. It introduces a crisp new interface, and is brimming with new programs and features.

VirtualBox and VMware
My build/image works very well in VirtualBox and VMware. I.e. you can run the system directly from the ISO file and also install it to a virtual hard drive. You can of course also make your own Raspbian/Debian system with the the PIXEL Desktop using Refracta Snapshot (pre-installed).

KERNEL
Kernel 4.19.0-5-686-pae is used in Build 190705. PAE (Physical Address Extension) increases the physical memory addressable by the system from 4 GB to 64 GB. If you want to run the system (which is 32bit) on older computers you shall use kernel 4.19.0-5-686, which also is included.

Login and passwords
Log in to the PIXEL Desktop as the ordinary user pi or as root. The passwords are raspberrypi respectively root. When logged in as pi you can use Sudo to become root. (Command: sudo su). When running Debian Pixel live (from a DVD or a USB stick) you’ll end up (after the boot process) logged in automatically as the user pi in X (PIXEL Desktop).

Runs from RAM
Another great thing is that this build can run from RAM. Use Boot alternative 3 (load to RAM). When the system has booted up you can remove the disc (DVD) or the USB stick. You’ll need at least 4 GB RAM to run the system that way. I.e. super fast!

Spotify
You may want to run Spotify. In this version of Debian Pixel you can’t install Spotify with the command sudo apt install spotify-client. Too many unfulfilled dependencies. You can, however, run Spotify Web Player. Use Firefox for that. Watch a screenshot when Spotify Web Player is running.

Important about Refracta
You can use the Refracta tools (pre-installed) to create your own installable Raspberry Pi Debian 10 PIXEL system once you have installed my build to hard drive. I mean change everything and then create a whole new Debian live system. Start Refracta from Menu >> System tools >> Refracta snapshot. You don’t even have to install my build to hard drive before you can use the Refracta tools. If you have plenty of RAM you can create a new (your own!) Debian PIXEL system while running my build from DVD or a USB stick. Please note that the whole Refracta process (creating your new ISO file) will only take 20 – 60 min! Please edit the configuration file /etc/refractasnapshot.conf first. Change line 45 and 46. I.e. decide where you want the ISO file to be build. The whole thing is very simple. NOTE: You can also do everything in VirtualBox or VMware. Use FileZilla (pre-installed) to transfer your new ISO file to your server.

Install to Debian PIXEL hard drive
Just start Refracta Installer from Menu >> System tools >> Refracta Installer and follow the instructions. Very simple.

Install Debian PIXEL to a USB stick
You can use Rufus in Windows. Persistence can’t be enabled though. You can also use UNetbootin in Windows or Linux. The best way to do it is to burn Debian PIXEL to a DVD, start up the system from the DVD and then use Refracta Installer for the installation. Choose to install Grub in MBR on /dev/sdb. (Normally your USB stick, but check it carefully!) I.e. you will get a chance to choose between /dev/sda and /dev/sdb. This method will (of course) give you perfect persistence.

Watch the slideshow below showing the Refracta installation process in Debian PIXEL.

SCREENSHOTS
Screenshot 1 – Spotify running
Screenshot 2 – Samba running (reach your Windows computers in your network)
Screenshot 3 – Refracta Snapshot has started
Screenshot 4 – Refracta Installer has started in VMware
Screenshot 5 – Wireless connection with NetworkManager and Wicd (installed in Build 170425, 180316, 180928 and 190705)
Screenshot 6 – WiFi connection using NetworkManager – in detail

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This version has been replaced by Build 191102...

Raspberry Pi is a trademark of Raspberry Pi Foundation

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at

andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX Pie 9.0 (with GAPPS) and AndEX Oreo 8.1 (also with GAPPS)!
and
about my Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 3/2 at
raspex.exton.se – latest is RaspAnd Pie 9.0 (without GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1 (with GAPPS)!

MeX Linux Build 190601 with Cinnamon 4.0, Refracta Snapshot and kernel 5.20-rc2-exton

NEWS/CHANGES 190601
Mex Linux is no longer based on Linux Mint. MeX Build 190601 is based only on Debian and Ubuntu 18.04.2 LTS (Long Term Support). I have replaced the original kernel with “my” special kernel 5.2.0-rc2-exton. Latest available kernel as of 190601. All packages in MeX Linux have been upgraded to the latest version by 190601. This version of MeX uses Cinnamon 4.0. Linux Mint “Tessa” 19.1 also uses Cinnamon 4.0 as Desktop environment. The very nice icon theme Papirus is installed and used. I haven’t changed the wallpapers since it’s hard to find nicer ones.

MORE MeX NEWS 190601
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 4 (load 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 1020 MB so MeX will run superfast from RAM!
3. I have replaced Google Chrome with Firefox. Google Chrome is no longer needed to be able to run Netflix in Linux.
4. The best thing with this new MeX build – Create your own installable Ubuntu 18.04.2 LTS Live DVD with Refracta tools (pre-installed)! The whole “remasterprocess” is so simple that a 10 year old child can do it.

Used KERNEL
The best thing with kernel 5.2.0-rc2 is that it has better support for the open-source Nvidia driver Nouveau than any other older kernel.

What’s new in kernel 5.2?

Who can benefit from MeX?
All who like Debian/Ubuntu and want a system that is easy to use and maintain. And of course those who want to create their own Ubuntu system in a very simple way with Refracta Snapshot. Regarding MeX also those who want to run a Linux system super fast from RAM and/or like to run Linux from a USB flash drive. And those who want a new kernel – 5.2-0-rc2.

SCREENSHOTS
The Desktop with Synaptic running
Spotify running

READ MORE…