GIMP on Xandros 3.01

[LooseChippings]

Hardware Spec ...
P4 3.06
1 GB RAM
Geforce FX 5200 running 2 x Hercules TFTs @ 2048 x 768
Win XP on 40 GB HD 0 (C Drive)
Linux Xandros 3.01 on 160 GB HD 1

I have recently installed the Linux OS just to try and get the feel of it and also to help my eldest son with his studies.

Anyway my problem is a simple one for Linux users but a frustrating one for me.

How do I install applications onto the system?

I want to install GIMP to have a dabble but it doesn't seem to come with any type of installer, but the package needs to be compiled ?

If the Linux OS is to become mainstream it needs to be a lot more user friendly to the masses than having them compile before install.

[s7p9a2m4]

I hav'nt used Xandros. It should have some kind of package manager. Xandros is Debian based and should have apt-get and synaptic. Synaptic is a graphical front-end for apt-get. Very easy to install, remove, and upgrade software with these systems.

Many distros are now using Synaptic or something similiar. PCLinuxOS, Blag, and alinux are examples of non-debian operating systems utilizing Synaptic.

Ubuntu has even a more simplistic system but still basically synaptic. Ubuntu will also notify you of udates and install them with one or two mouse clicks. Ubuntu could be one of the more newbie-friendly distros available.

[LooseChippings]

Thanks for that, I will give a try when I get some time off from 'Dads Taxi'

[harry12]

Originally Posted by LooseChippings

Thanks for that, I will give a try when I get some time off from 'Dads Taxi'

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I think this sort of comment shows how poor Linux distros are. Let's assume this guy is moderately PC savvy (enough to find this site!) so why can't a distro have a "New User" welcome screen that shows what is connected (that at least gives you confidence all is well) and then you check each piece of kit by some simple means, maybe with an option of Full check(!) if you have the time. Thus you can assume the keyboard is working, since you entered the username/password - but it would be nice to know if there are any assigned keys - used to be called "function Keys" - if these have special uses the beginner needs to know......
I would suggest one key is reserved for a (1)Return to Welcome and...(2) the customary Help F1 assignment.....maybe another (3) as a moving bookmark through Tutorials - that would be nice.....
Then a series of sample files chould be opened in each Application, (those with the Distro) - this will make sure the user can open files, add a tag/mouse stroke etc/and save them (maybe a warning if you're about to overwrite!)....then you can send these tasks to the printer - please - Not one page per task - It really is time we started Saving paper......so collect them together and print them out - by putting the paper back in and use the "Continue Print" command (NO, I havent seen one, either) - this will build up a test page with your checks and you can sleep soundly, knowing it all works perfectly.
As to adding Application/programs it will be easy enough to go on-line and download (another Set of tasks?) a help-file that may correct any Helpfile errors and maybe add some message to your Test-page:- "The following Helpfiles are up to date" - then you play a game of say.....chess..... and the Test page will print out the moves - thereby showing that you've successfully downloaded an Application (= a game) and a helpfile (the instuctions)............Now that's not too much to ask...........is it?
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For those advanced persons that want to mess about with their Distro and don't need the Welcome - they are able to dismiss it and can lock it out, or delete the files if they so wish - but it is quite clear that Linux Distros are
1) far too many in number
2) far too geeky in nature
..................for the average Joe, or Joette
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All in my humble opinion, but that's me..........
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I rest my case...H