This guide is intended to provide you details on how well this laptop works with Linux and which drivers you need to configure. For details on how to actually install and configure the required drivers have a look at our guides section for distribution specific instructions.

Page Contents Introduction Editing This Page Specifications Linux Compatibility Notes Summary

Introduction

This is a guide to running Linux with the Asus F9S laptop.

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Specifications

Name	Asus F9S
Processor	Intel Core 2 Duo T7250 2.0GHz
Screen	12.1" WXGA Widescreen
RAM	2GB
HDD	160GB
Optical Drive	DVD+-RW
Graphics	Nvidia Geforce 8400M
Network	Ethernet, Intel 4965 802.11abg, Bluetooth

Linux Compatibility

Device	Compatibility	Comments
Processor	Yes
Screen	Yes
HDD	Yes
Optical Drive	Yes
Graphics	Yes
Sound	Yes	See below
Ethernet	Yes
Wireless	Yes	Use the 4965 Driver
Bluetooth	Not Tested
Modem	Not Tested
USB	Yes
Card Reader	Yes
ExpressCard Slot	Not Tested
Fingerprint Reader	Not Tested
Webcam	Yes

Notes

You will need to use the proprietary NVIDIA driver to get 3D support from the Geforce 8400M. The open source 'nv' driver only supports 2D.

I believe no current Linux distribution properly supports the sound controller in the Asus F9S. You will need to update to the latest version of ALSA (at least version 1.0.16rc1) for sound to work.(EDIT: simply add "options snd-hda-intel model=lenovo" minus the "" to /etc/modprobe.conf to get working audio input/output, warning though make sure your microphone volume is set to low as you may get a really high pitched squeal from having it set too high.)

On some distributions (notably Ubuntu 7.10), you will need to update to the latest version of the iwl4965 driver or you may get random wireless dropouts.

Summary

Unfortunately the Asus F9S isn't the easiest laptop to use with Linux. The major issue with sound can be a problem for many people. However driver support has improved in the development versions of ALSA and iwl4965 so hopefully soon to be release distribution will work much better.


Have you installed Linux on this laptop? If so how about leaving a comment about your success in the comments section below.