Need a tip on what linux to use

[robak]

Hi everyone!!

I what to install a new linux-system on a S-ATA hdd. but I know the problem of w2k, that you have to "install" the S-ATA driver before the installation starts. is this the same at linux? an how do I install the S-ATA modules into the kernel within an installation.
another question is, if I update to kernel 2.6.0, do I have to install S-ATA modules into the kernel sources before compiling the new kernel? and how does this work?

but before all that I really want to know WHICH linux to use?
I need full Direct3D and openGL support.I'm not afraid of editing configs, so config-toolz are not so important

My system:
Epox-8rda3+ (Nforce2-400)
athlon XP (t-bred'B' cpu)
radeon 9500
sound and LAN onboard (c-media soundchip and realtek 8139 lanchip)

BIG THX 4 HELP !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[lordnothing]

if you are familiar with linux already i would recommend gentoo.. it's package manager is an opt-in system (only installs what you tell it to and the deps needed) instead of opt-out like a lot of other distros are.. also, everything is built to your box if you set your USE flags and CFLAGS well.. be warned, though.. gentoo can take a while to install due to the fact that everything is compiled from the source..

[Dolda2000]

If your S-ATA chipset is supported by the built-in drivers, you probably will not have to install them manually. If not, the insertion method varies from distro to distro:
In RedHat/Fedora, you can usually ask it to load driver disks.
In Gentoo, you get a full LiveCD to install the system, so just go download the driver and insert it before beginning to install.
I don't really know about other distros.

[Hellmasker]

full d3d support... umm.... d3d is a microsoft invention they have no plans to port to linux, openGL is fully supported

when compiling a new kernel just click the driver for your SATA card/chipset and it will compile it into the kernel.

[robak]

I'm downloading gentoo right now, but I found out that debian is FULL 4 free!! at www.linuxiso.org
there are 7 cds for download

has it anyone??
pls post your problems with it and if you had none, post this, too *g

thx again !!!!

robak

[Dolda2000]

Full for free? Is there any distro that isn't?

[lordnothing]

RedHat Enterprise... :P

[robak]

yes

LINUX IS ALWAYS FOR FREE *bg*

but I mean that debian gives all cds for download
other distros don't

[Hellmasker]

which distros dont?

all the ones ive seen do

[mesut]

i think suse dont