I nuked my Ubuntu Linux work laptop a couple of weeks ago - on purpose. The ATI video was unpredictable and my Thinkpad T60p would not sleep or hibernate (both known issues due to the ATI chipset). I took a bit of extra time before completely building it back up. I didn’t want to mess it up like before.

• I did not install the ATI video driver
• I did not attempt to get Compiz Fusion working
• I installed and later removed xcompmgr (initially to get AWN working)
• I did configure, but later disabled, Avant Windows Navigator
• I did ‘theme’ Ubuntu to look a bit like OS X (I’ve gotten comfortable with the look and having my window controls on the left)

I am left with a 24 pixel panel at the top and bottom of my screen. The one at the bottom is for my “open windows” but I seldom use it so it will be the next thing to go. The one at the top has icons for the most used apps, the default desktop switcher, and my status icons. With this setup, I have all nearly all of my screen real estate for work and I have nearly all the same function as my “cool desktop”.

I miss the 3D effects but I have not really given up much in the way of functionality. What I have gained is a faster startup time, hibernate and sleep functions, more available memory, and a few less distractions. Most of all, the machine is more stable and less vulnerable to system updates that trash the video.

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Posted in Linux, Productivity, Thinkpad T60p, Ubuntu |

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