[thechat] New Year's resolution

Daniel J. Cody djc at members.evolt.org
Thu Dec 13 12:33:32 CST 2001


Hey Kev -

First off, congrats :)

Kevin Stevens wrote:


> Hi Gang
>            OK, I've had it with Microsoft! I took the time and trouble to
> learn ASP, a Microsoft language, but if I want to upgrade to XP I will have
> to shell out £400 for the Professional version. So, my New Year's resolution
> is to get into Linux and learn PHP. I have my old machine sitting around
> doing nothing so I'm going to install Linux on that, but I have a couple of
> questions...
> 
> 1. I only have room for 1 monitor, and during the (probably) lengthy
> transitional period I will still be using my Windows machine most of the
> time. Is it possible to run 2 computers using 1 monitor? My idea is to have
> a Y lead connecting both machines to 1 monitor that I can flick a switch on
> to view either one. Anyone know if this possible, and what such a lead would
> be called?


Sure thing.. I use something similar at work for my two linux boxen.. 
You're looking for a 2port KVM switch, like this one:
http://www2.warehouse.com/product.asp?pf%5Fid=VW58117&cat=pc

It allows you to toggle the monitor/keyboard/mouse between computers..

 
> 2. I know a lot of people who are cosy with Linux and can offer me
> assistance, Garrett has kindly offered to come round and install it for me
> for the measly cost of beer & pizza (and heaven knows the poor boy needs
> fattening up), but I am more comfortable with a good reference book that I
> can go through in my spare time. What book recommendations do any of you
> have for a complete novice to use, preferably without the word "Dummies" in
> the title?

gr.. why are all the people willing to offer beer for linux 
installations in europe? :)

One of the best books for linux is , "Running Linux 3rd Edtion" its an 
O'Reilly book with a picture of a horse on the front of it. its the 
standard book for learning linux.

if you choose to buy a shrink wrapped version of Mandrake or RedHat 
though, they should come with a fair amount of documentation as well 
that will help out..

shout if you have more questions :)

.djc.





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