Build for learning Linux

[cday710]

Hey everyone, I am new to building computers, and I would like to build a computer to learn Linux. I feel as though it will be helpful in my field to be familiar with this operating system. This machine will only be used to play around with. I will not be gaming with it, so I don't think I will need a great graphics card. I basically do not want, or think I need, top of the line parts. I would just like something that is not extremely slow and very inexpensive. I have a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. What can I expect to pay for a very basic machine? $200, $300, or $400? Could someone help pick out parts or give me an idea of what parts I should spend more on and what I should not bother with? This would be extremely helpful and much appreciated.

[flanzig1]

For new computer, one the the low end Dells would work. Or, try to find an old computer that still works, maybe some you know has one in the back of their closet.

[cday710]

Don't the Dells come with a version of Windows already on it? How would I get Windows off the Dell and get a copy of Linux on it?

[GraemeM]

you can just install Linux overtop of it (or have both on it if you'd like) although ti does seem like a waste of money to buy windows

[BJDwrk]

Dell actually sells some PCs without an OS included for the purpose of using free source operating systems like Linux. I know they used to do this, so I guess I could be wrong and they might not anymore, but I;m pretty sure there was a lowend system in the options. Check their site,

[cday710]

I checked the dell website and couldnt find any system w/o an OS. What about buying a barebones system from tigerdirect or newegg.com? A system with everything besides an OS. I would probably only upgrade the ram or HD if it even comes with one. Any recommendations?

[Kareeser]

I'd also consider finding an older computer (that is, within the last 4-5 years) to mess around with. Trying out Linux is fun, but it shouldn't cost money

[glc]

If you want to build a cheap (but still QUALITY) computer for the learning experience, here you are - all at Newegg.

Case: Enlight EN-7250-AKZ Black Steel ATX Mid Tower Computer Case 300W Power Supply - Retail
$9.47 Three Day Shipping
$49.99

Motherboard: ASUS P4P800-MX Socket 478 Intel 865GV Micro ATX Intel Motherboard - Retail
$5.46 Three Day Shipping
$58.99

Processor: Intel Celeron D 310 Prescott 533MHz FSB Socket 478 Processor Model BX80546RE2130C - Retail
Free Three Day Shipping
$43.45

Memory: CORSAIR ValueSelect 512MB (2 x 256MB) 184-Pin DDR SDRAM DDR 400 (PC 3200) Unbuffered Dual Channel Kit System Memory Model VS512MBKIT400C3 - Retail
$4.99 Three Day Shipping
$51.99

Hard drive: Western Digital Caviar SE WD800JD 80GB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive - OEM
$4.99 Three Day Shipping
$42.99

Optical drive: Pioneer 16X DVD±R DVD Burner With 5X DVD-RAM Read Black ATAPI Model DVR-111D - OEM
Free Three Day Shipping
$31.99

Floppy (if desired): MITSUMI Black 1.44MB 3.5" Internal Floppy Drive - OEM
$4.99 Three Day Shipping
$5.99

If your budget allows, the 2 things I *might* upgrade are the processor and/or ram. A 1gb dual channel kit would add about 30 bucks to the tab, and another 20 bucks or so would get you a faster Celeron-D.