Array.org Netbook Repository for Ubuntu

Project Goals

To provide a customized set of GNU/Linux kernel packages that supply the drivers necessary to use the Asus EeePC on the Ubuntu v8.04 (Hardy Heron) and Ubuntu v8.10 (Intrepid Ibex) based distributions.

These custom kernel packages should support as many EeePC models as possible by delivering the hardware drivers needed to take advantage of features not yet supported by the Generic Ubuntu kernel, including,

• wireless and wired networking support,
• soundcard and microphone support,
• built-in webcam support,
• hotkey support.

These custom kernel packages should be delivered via a Debian-style APT repository to allow for easy upgrades of future upstream drivers and kernels.

Scope

The generic Ubuntu kernel supports as many hardware combinations as possible. This project provides two custom kernel flavours specifically designed for the EeePC:

1. eeepc: contains the basic generic kernel configuration, plus the eeepc-specific drivers.

   Select this flavour if you want support for as many add-on USB devices, or if you have non-standard EeePC hardware.

2. eeepc-lean: a trimmer kernel than the eeepc or generic kernels. Extra modules (like Nvidia, ISDN, ATM, etc) have been removed and the majority of EeePC-specific modules have been compiled in-line with the kernel.

   Select this flavour if you want a faster responsive kernel and you don't need non-standard EeePC hardware support.

Caveats

This project is not sponsored, endorsed or supported by Ubuntu. It contains the latest (not always the greatest) code made available by third-party developers. Bugs do exist.

I am not a kernel developer, nor am I an Ubuntu or Debian developer. This might possibly break your EeePC.

I offer no guarantee that these packages will a) solve a problem, b) cause multiple problems, or c) do absolutely nothing useful at all.

Acknowledgements

This project is made available in the spirit of Open Source software. It would not be possible without the contributions of thousands of Linux hackers and the GNU license.

The following individuals and groups deserve special recognition:

• Canonical & Ubuntu: For building, releasing and maintaining the core distribution.
• Arjan Opmeer: For the Elantech touchpad driver
• MadWifi Project: For producing the ath_pci and ath5k drivers for the Atheros 5007 Wireless chipset
• Franco Lee and Ed Martinson: For lending me their personal 700 and 901 series devices.
• Everyone who has contributed to the "Beer Fund" :)

--
Adam McDaniel
Red Deer, Alberta, Canada