Desktop Computer from Tesco for £139.93!

crandy07

Tesco have released two new computers that don't run Windows, but a free Operating System called Ubuntu. Because it is based on Linux, the computers are cheaper as they do not have to pay for a license from Microsoft. Ubuntu comes with Internet, graphics and Office applications, and you can download software such as Skype and Google Earth to use on the platform.

The two PC's are here:

http://direct.tesco.com/search/default.aspx?search=linux&confirm.x=0&confirm.y=0

They do not come with a monitor.

Browntoa

for the "non Techies" out there, this will not run any Windows games etc

but perfect for homework/home office/surfing etc and there are many good free alternatives to windows programs out there

the bundled software is Microsoft office compatable

FloFlo

This non techie still has no idea? but I'm sure they're a bargain.

gaming_guy

i thought i would just point out that this wont run any windows programs (or games, as pointed out by Browntoa) unless you install a copy of windows in vmware or use WINE to run windows programs

keithwjones

For around £350 you can get a Dell with flat screen monitor.

I've repaired computers for quite a few years and never seen one with linux. They are normally used by people with computer knowledge.

I would not recomend them for the novice.

They are cheap but will be costly to convert to a windows machine.

Keith

unrich

gaming_guy wrote: »

i thought i would just point out that this wont run any windows programs (or games, as pointed out by Browntoa) unless you install a copy of windows in vmware or use WINE to run windows programs

As a user of Ubuntu may I just point out that there are many more games available with Ubuntu than come with a standard windows installation. There is a free version of tetris for example. A free version of Yahtzee is also particularly time destroying.

Also if one had a copy of windows lying about I'd be interested to see if this PC would run it?

Also the ASUS EEE is appearing in more google product listings as a pre-order. This will also run a linux based operating system.

A novice would be the best person to give a Linux based PC to, as they have none of the preconceptions of a windows sufferer and would adapt quickly to the environment.

keithwjones

unrich

I have some computer parts which would make not a bad system. I do not want to spend money on buying an operating system. So I could do it with Linux.

What are the positives and negatives of the idea.

Keith

unrich

The only thing you'll loose is a CD-R and time. There are no negatives in my opinion.

Go to the Ubuntu site and download the latest ISO. (7.10 I think).
Whilst the ISO is downloading:
Build your system. You won't even need a hard disk to test it.
Burn the ISO to CD-R using Nero or the like.
Boot from the CD.

See how you like it.
If you do, stick in a HDD and install it to disk from the CD-R.

fuzzgun19

Does anyone know if this £139 PC is available to buy in one of the larger Tesco stores?

C_Ronaldo

fuzzgun19 wrote: »

Does anyone know if this £139 PC is available to buy in one of the larger Tesco stores?

Ask your local tescos i guess

rednose66

keithwjones wrote: »

For around £350 you can get a Dell with flat screen monitor.

I've repaired computers for quite a few years and never seen one with linux. They are normally used by people with computer knowledge.

I would not recomend them for the novice.

They are cheap but will be costly to convert to a windows machine.

Keith

Costly to convert to Windows? All it would cost is a copy of Windows.