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 Dell XPS M1530 laptop.

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Specifications

Name	Dell XPS M1530
Processor	Intel Core 2 Duo T7250 2.0GHz
Screen	15.4" WXGA Widescreen
RAM	2GB
HDD	250GB
Optical Drive	DVD+-RW
Graphics	NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT
Network	Ethernet, Intel 3945 802.11abg

Linux Compatibility

Device	Compatibility	Comments
Processor	Yes
Screen	Yes
HDD	Yes
Optical Drive	Yes
Graphics	Yes
Sound	Yes
Ethernet	Yes
Wireless	Yes
Bluetooth	Not Tested
USB	Yes
Firewire	Not Tested
Card Reader	Not Tested
ExpressCard Slot	Not Tested
Webcam	Not Tested

Notes

The Geforce 8600M requires the use of the proprietary NVIDIA driver to function. Most Linux distributions do not include this driver so you will likely need to install it manually.

For many Linux distributions you will not get sound until you install the latest ALSA drivers (at least version 1.0.16rc2). Ubuntu 7.10 does not have this problem.

You will need at least kernel 2.6.22 for this laptop. Older kernels will have issues with the wired and wireless network.

Summary

Ubuntu 7.10 is probably the best choice for the Dell XPS M1530 as it includes the fixed ALSA drivers as well as the proprietary NVIDIA driver. However other distribution will work just fine after you manually install these two items.


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