PCLinuxOS is among the top 10 Linux distros listed on Distrowatch.com. It is a popular distro among Linux users that can be used as a LiveCD or installed on a hard drive.
The PCLinuxOS distro offers several different versions featuring different desktop environments including the KDE, LXDE and XFCE desktops. They also offer a community release called the Full Monty Desktop. Recently, I tried out the Full Monty Desktop version of PCLinuxOS and today I will share a bit about this unique distro.
First off, a quick explanation on how the Full Monty Desktop was developed. First they took the regular PCLinuxOS KDE installation, then they added a special desktop layout and mixed it all up with lots of pre-installed applications and drivers. In the end, this combo creates a distro that sets out to make its user’s computing experience easy, fun and filled to the brim.
The Full Monty Desktop version of PCLinuxOS features six activity-based virtual desktops, each featuring a colorful background with an image depicting the main theme of that particular desktop:
Desktop 1 is devoted to Internet activities. This is the place where email, Web browsers, chat clients, instant messaging, microblogging and any other Internet-related programs can be found.
Desktop 2 features office programs. This desktop hosts the full LibreOffice productivity suite, ebook readers, a word processor and presentation and spreadsheet apps. It also features Scribus for desktop publishing, among other programs.
Desktop 3 is dedicated to games. There are emulators and games of all types including Freecell, arcade, puzzle, card and educational games.
Desktop 4 features multimedia software. This desktop is the place where you can create or listen to music, watch or create DVDs and CDs and perform any other multimedia tasks. My personal favorite on this desktop is karaoke. There is a folder full of hit songs of some of the top artists such as the Beatles, Mariah Carey, Elvis, Earth, Wind & Fire, Kenny Chesney, Faith Hill and many more waiting at your fingertips.
Desktop 5 hosts the graphics programs. Perform tasks related to images on this desktop from scanning, drawing and more.
Desktop 6 is the place to go for all things related to the system. This is where one can find system information, administrate, configure and customize their computer environment.
Exploring the K-menu and highlighting the sections will display all of the programs available in that section.
The download for this distro is huge at 3.93GB, therefore it must be burned on a DVD. Minimum system requirements to run PCLinuxOS Full Monty Desktop are 1GB RAM, 20 GB free hard drive space. A 3D graphics card recommended but not required.
Learn more about the PCLinuxOS Full Monty Desktop at www.pclinuxos.com/?page_id=1413.
Net buzzz
Hulu was redesigned for better navigation, easier access to the previous night’s episodes and new releases. Learn more at http://blog.hulu.com/2012/08/21/launching-a-new-hulu-a-fresh-look-for-the-shows-you-love/.
Roku corner
Download a free Roku remote app on your iOS or Android device as a backup. In addition to the remote buttons, the apps include a better formatted channel lineup and a keyboard feature which makes inputing text on your Roku a cinch. The app can locate all the Rokus on your network for easy control. Read about the iOS device app at http://itunes.apple. com/us/app/roku/id482066631?mt=8 and the Android device at https://play.google. com/store/apps/details?id=com.roku.remote.
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