Business

Dell Ships First Computers with Desktop Linux

Through a partnership with Questar, a PC distributor, Dell has introduced a line of Linux-based desktop computers in Europe.

Each computer will be shipped by Dell and preinstalled with the English or Italian version of the Linspire 4.5 Linux-based operating system. Each PC will include Dell’s gold technical support.

“Our agreement with Dell allows our customers to purchase high-quality Linux computers with an exceptional Dell service warranty and access to Linspire’s software Warehouse,” said David Orban, chief executive officer of Questar.

“By joining forces, we’re both able to forge new commercial frontiers in Europe and offer top-value Linux solutions and support to our customers.”

OpenOffice and Other Software

All Dell computers sold by Questar will be equipped with the latest version of Linspire and will include the OpenOffice suite complete with word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software.

OpenOffice offers native file compatibility with Microsoft Office.

In addition, customers who purchase a Dell computer will receive a one-year membership to the Linspire Warehouse, where users can find over 1,800 software programs.

With Linspire’s “click-and-run” technology, users can install new software applications on their computers simply by selecting them from the software library online.

Dell Plus Linux

“This is a winning combination for the European community — Dell’s highly recognized brand and service package coupled with Questar’s Linux sales expertise,” said Michael Robertson, chief executive officer of Lindows.

“Computer users now have a quality Linux solution — a range of affordable computers with full hardware support and a selection of add-on software for all their application needs.”

The Dell Optiplex comes with 256 MB of RAM, a 40-GB hard drive and can be ordered with or without a 15-inch flat-panel LCD monitor.

2 Comments

  • It seems Linspire and Microsoft boxing match is
    dying down now; I hope it dose. There’s too much
    territory out here in cyberspace to be so Lindow-
    window technical. I never could understand how
    a true rhyme could suggest stolen identity. But when the accuser has billions the boss is able to
    launch a few bombs. Luckily Linspire has been making lots of friends and has shown great resiliency in the software industry. The open source movement is sort of like the civil rights
    movement in the sixties–the powerless just want
    a piece of the planetary pie. With deals surfacing with Questar, Novell, Red Hat–realnetworks, cdbaby, Seagate and Dell computer, open source will surely be an attractive competitive alternative to the smaller computer manufacturers making up 60% of the total world’s computer market. "Sound of Literati" go
    to the Linspire warehouse and download the Lsong
    music store jukebox. The best open source musical software 19 dollars will get you if you are not
    a member. And remember to witness the powerful
    experience of the spoken word Xplosion! Peace.

    • As I read this article my first question was wondering what all those people who have just finished paying $60 for just Linspire 4.5 must feel as they read. I am one of those unfortunate people and am still a bit furious that the OS comes with a minimum of tools. If one wants to add software to bring it up to a minimum system one is obliged to pay another $54 to access any programs. One can only install programs using Click-n-Run (probably a better title than Cha-Ching!). There are no manual pages available, and many of the Linux commands have been removed to assure that one remains loyal to the Click-n-Run process. Programs installed under Click-n-Run expire when your yearly subscription does. So now good folks will find themselves forever tied to the deposit slips of Lindows.

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