checklist for setting up a computer for someone else

[habilis]

If you're setting up a Ubuntu (or Xubuntu) computer for someone new to linux, and this person isn't good enough with computers to do much configuring, administration, etc -what things should be done before handing it over to them?

I install the "Ubuntu Restricted extras" (if there is a DVD drive). I make sure the internet connection works. Other than that I'm not sure what needs doing.

I want to set up the basic capabilties like watching a DVD movie, watching youtube videos, etc.

[mrrangerman]

All of what you said + make sure java is installed and working, if they have a facebook account make sure jre is 1.6 as some of the features don't work on 1.5. Spend some time and show them around the system.

[habilis]

Thanks mrrangerman, the java/facebook thing is just the sort of thing I was asking about.

[D-cat]

Probably setting up the Medibuntu repository and installing libdvdcss2 so commercial DVDs work. Setup any hardware s/he has (like 3D video drivers, printer, camera, etc.) and make sure it works. That's one of those things you do not want to leave them frustratingly trying to figure out.

Have an idea what the computer will be used for and what it is capable of, then have an appropriate applications list. Most definitely spend some time showing them around. Maybe help with setting up IM (Pidgin/Empathy) if s/he uses that. If you know what they like, adding a few extras like games or GoogleEarth might not hurt (providing the computer can handle it).

[htismaqe]

Make sure to install Flash too.

[D-cat]

ubuntu-restricted-extras should include adobe flash, but it is worth a check to make sure.

[habilis]

Thanks for the info. D-cat, are you recommending installing the whole Medibuntu repository, or just libdvdcss2?

Also, by "providing the computer can handle it" -do you mean disk space wise, memory/resources, or whether or not the computer can even run the program?

[D-cat]

The whole repository is probably overkill.. again it depends on the intended use. I'd at least add in the keyring, libdvdcss2, and the w32codecs. Install other packages as you see fit.

The "providing the computer can handle it" is about the computer's specs. RAM and video card probably play the most deciding factors depending on application. While the processor affects overall speed, I've found that as long as it is pentium class, you'll usually be okay, but a kick@$$ multi GHz quad care processor will do you no good if you're constantly swapping to the hard drive. You're CPU also can't take up the slack on a no-name GPU; if you're going to run 3D apps, it must be ATI, Intel, or (preferably) nVidia, no exceptions.

[htismaqe]

Based on my limited experience, I would go with nVidia. If you get a newer ATI, you *should* be ok, but I've seen issues with them as well.

The only card I haven't has any problems with is the nVidia.

[D-cat]

I'm assuming there's no hardware budget. The point from my perspective is if you don't have the hardware, don't install the software. e.g. if you're stuck with something like a S3 Virge card, don't bother with GoogleEarth or any of the various OpenGL based games. If you don't have at least 256MB RAM, forgo OpenOffice in favor of AbiWord (and maybe favor XFCE). Stuff like like makes a difference in the system's overall usability.