Cheap options for a small Linux server/controller

I'm thinking of getting one of these and putting linux on it, http://cgi.ebay.ca/7-Mini-Laptop-Ne...03472277?pt=Laptops_Nov05&hash=item2564b68195

Is it worth it?

The NSLU2 that I'm running has less computing power overall and works great for automation tasks and serial input/output via the USB port. I can even successfully use X forwarding with it, though that's almost always a complete waste of resources.

This thread makes the dirt cheap netbook look like a lost cause, though:

http://www.linuxquestions.org/quest...y-linux-that-will-run-on-a-via-8505-a-860783/

EDIT: Another thread makes it look possible, but quite frustrating:

http://www.linuxquestions.org/quest...rney-to-linux-ify-a-chinese-smartbook-862482/

I found this it might work http://www.fedora-netbook.com/index.php?p=1_21 if not i guess I could try to do it in WinCE, but not looking forward to it as I haven't done any programming since high school.

For the same price, you could get a WRT54G router that will run Linux and is serial capable with a bit of tinkering. For twice the price, you can have a NSLU2 (again, some tinkering required, but less than with the router). For that same $100, you can get a SheevaPlug or GuruPlug that already has Ubuntu Linux installed. I'd spring for the SheevaPlug. The GuruPlug looks like it has a serious overheating issue.

But then I would have to log into the system remotely, at least with el cheapo I don't have to use another comp and I'd be able to surf on it.

Look for something like this $40 used PC laptop from a reputable seller:

http://cgi.ebay.com/Dell-D420-LAPTO...tops_Nov05&hash=item415b050f88#ht_3370wt_1141

It will save you a lot of time and headaches as long as its not DOA.

That one doesn't ship to canada. I found another netbook with android on it, shouldn't be hard to put Ubuntu or fedora on it. It's either a laptop/netbook or my kegging setup. I'll just have to wait a couple months for the kegging if I go netbook.

http://cgi.ebay.ca/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270753022843&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

You're going to have the same problems with that Android based netbook as the other one with Windows CE. They're the same basic architecture. Because you require a display, I highly recommend finding an x86-based used laptop that will ship to your area.

I'll keep looking, hopefully I can find something decent.

Is there any hope for moving a .Net control app onto a linux platform?.

kladue, this might get you started:

http://www.mono-project.com/Main_Page

Since it seems you're talking about cross platform development, have you considered Java or a web based interface using php on the server side?

kladue said:

Is there any hope for moving a .Net control app onto a linux platform?.

Click to expand...

Take a look at mono. I don't have any real experience with it, but it may be a place to start.

http://www.mono-project.com/Main_Page

I see Yuri beat me to it.

Thank for the information, it should free me from being stuck with Win CE. I am trying to load and edit IO points and control loop information during run time to get the freedom to add, subtract and move IO around with out hard coding.

Yuri_Rage said:

For the same price, you could get a WRT54G router that will run Linux and is serial capable with a bit of tinkering. For twice the price, you can have a NSLU2 (again, some tinkering required, but less than with the router). For that same $100, you can get a SheevaPlug or GuruPlug that already has Ubuntu Linux installed. I'd spring for the SheevaPlug. The GuruPlug looks like it has a serious overheating issue.

Click to expand...

I'v got two of the WRT54G's. They work very well. But those plugs Yuri speaks of are very cool indeed.

cgruelle said:

Take a look at mono. I don't have any real experience with it, but it may be a place to start.

http://www.mono-project.com/Main_Page

I see Yuri beat me to it.

Click to expand...

I have a C/PHP/JS solution I'll be posting soon. The C server code sits in the background doing it's thing, while the PHP/JS code handles the user interface. The UI is built by enumerating the server config.

The UI talks to the C code via TCP, so, as long as the C code is running on a linux boxen (required), the PHP/JS could be anywhere. Or, if you don't like PHP/JS, roll your own UI using .Net on a Windows box. All config is done on the C side (in a INI file), so it doesn't really matter.

Yuri_Rage said:

You're going to have the same problems with that Android based netbook as the other one with Windows CE. They're the same basic architecture. Because you require a display, I highly recommend finding an x86-based used laptop that will ship to your area.

Click to expand...

Ditto. Create an ebay search (and save it) that looks for laptops in a price range. I'm personally fond of old Thinkpads as they tend to be extremely rugged. The x24's rock, but beware - you might wind up bidding against me. Another line with a stellar rep is the Dell Latitude (also made for business use). I'd stay away from the consumer junk though.

I am running Ubuntu 10.04 LTS on a Dell Inspiron Mini10, and no problems..

Cost = $0 bec sister became fed up with blue screen of death (twice)...

Good guide:

http://www.ubuntumini.com/

What about temperature sensors? What kind of options do you have for working with Linux? I've seen that Yuri has built his own, but I'd rather not if I don't have to.

What are some options for temp sensors and relays that will work with a Linux system without having to build the sensors myself. What kind of setups have you built and/or seen?

Have you looked at the $25 Rasberry PI ?

http://www.raspberrypi.org/

If you're considering an Arduino why not get the Wifi, or Ethernet, Shield and cut out the PC all together?

kappclark said:

Have you looked at the $25 Rasberry PI ?

http://www.raspberrypi.org/

Click to expand...

Just got mine, gona start playing...