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5790

The most requested feature...

Linux, Operating Systems, Sales Strategies submitted by xivulon 09/26/07 **UNDER REVIEW**

There are several proposals that basically ask the same thing: SHOW UBUNTU IN THE LIST OF OPERATING SYSTEM ON ALL MACHINES [subtract $50]. And why not, add XP to the list as well. There are also many more proposals that would be made redundant IF the above was implemented. If you add them all together that is probably the most requested feature at the moment. Yes I think many of the ideas below can be merged.

http://www.ideastorm.com/article/show/73206/Make_Linux_and_no_Operating_syste...
http://www.ideastorm.com/article/show/72962/Put_Ubuntu_on_the_list_of_operati...
http://www.ideastorm.com/article/show/72880/Dont_make_it_difficult_for_people...
http://www.ideastorm.com/article/show/68182/Add_all_the_OSs_you_sell_to_the_H...
http://www.ideastorm.com/article/show/68515/Ubuntu_on_all_dells

Proposals that would be made redundant:

http://www.ideastorm.com/article/show/68294/Same_discounts_available_on_Ubunt...
http://www.ideastorm.com/article/show/72902/Why_Cant_Dell_Put_Linux_On_Their_...
http://www.ideastorm.com/article/show/73961/Make_Ubuntu_laptops_cheaper_than_...
http://www.ideastorm.com/article/show/68567/Make_the_dell_ubuntu_models_avail...
http://www.ideastorm.com/article/show/72525/Ubuntu_on_all_models_where_it_works
http://www.ideastorm.com/article/show/67851/Ubuntu_on_121_or_133_inch_laptops
http://www.ideastorm.com/article/show/72748/Better_selection_of_Linux_notebooks
http://www.ideastorm.com/article/show/67631/Make_an_efford_to_includ_UBUNTU_i...
http://www.ideastorm.com/article/show/73954/bDell_Just_Give_Choice_a_Chanceb_...
http://www.ideastorm.com/article/show/67867/Shop_Dell_PCs_with_Linux_Require_...
http://www.dellideastorm.com/article/show/67692

...and many more...

Of course not all hardware choices will go down well with Ubuntu, but you have a conflict resolution system in place to notify users that make incompatible choices, and that could easily be extended to address conflicts between hardware and operating system. The only reason not to have Ubuntu is when there are fundamental incompatibilities that cannot be addressed by swapping wireless card or video card (suspend/hibernation...). In this case show "No operating system" (no point in having "No operating system" when a free operating system is available).

So, don't hide Ubuntu in some dark corner of your website only known to geeks, give customers a REAL choice...





28 Comments »

1970

Gobuntu Compatable System

Linux, Desktops and Laptops submitted by dpic 11/28/07

Take linux to a new level and support Gobuntu!



"Gobuntu is a GNU/Linux operating system, derived from Ubuntu, that endeavors to adhere to the Free Software Foundations four freedoms and intends to provide a base for other free software platforms to build upon with minimal modification required. It does this by only including open-source non-restricted software. This means there will be no firmware, drivers, applications, or content included in Gobuntu that does not include the full source or whose license does not provide the right to use, study, modify, and redistribute the body of work."

This means offering Gobuntu pre-installed and fully compatible with at least one laptop and one desktop as well as compatible with at least one printer.

After adding support for Ubuntu, Gobuntu should be very easy to offer. 35 Comments »

6460

make linux systems EASY TO FIND

Dell Web Site submitted by phubert 10/18/07

At other sites, I have seen comments by individuals who have BOUGHT Dell Ubuntu systems complaining about the difficulty FINDING said systems.

I think you'll get more sales if you improve the visibility! 30 Comments »

30000

Standardize Power Cables for Laptops

Accessories (Keyboards, etc.), Laptops submitted by badblood 08/27/07 **UNDER REVIEW**

Nothing is more annoying than laptop power cables that are not interchangeable from one computer model to another or from one brand of computer to another. Power cables have been standardized on most electrical applicances, including desktop computers for decades.

Make an effort to promote and implement standard power cables for laptops.


Please see dawn_l's comments below.
115 Comments »

25720

Linux Hardware Compatibility List

Dell Web Site, Linux submitted by s3indiana 02/20/07 **IN PROGRESS**

Create a listing of Dell hardware that's compatible with the major Linux distributions (Fedora, OpenSuse, ubuntu, Freespire) providing compatibility with not just systems (desktops and laptops) but include peripherals (printers, camera's, flash drives, compatible routers, etc.). Include levels of compatibility so the reviewer can make an educated choice. This would provide the greatest assistance for those looking at alternatives...

We're working to add something like this to our linux.dell.com wiki. Click here to see what john_h has to say.





31 Comments »

29110

Put Ubuntu on the list of operating systems when building a PC!

Linux, Sales Strategies, Desktops and Laptops submitted by samb0057 08/10/07 **UNDER REVIEW**

Ubuntu is hidden in a dark corner of the website. I work in IT support, and I have a client who was having virus problems a little while ago. I fixed the problem by installing Ubuntu on their PC. Very recently they called me asking for advice on a new computer, I told them about your new offer providing Ubuntu pre-installed on PCs and they wanted to purchase, but could not find the section on your site (this person is a very basic user, doesn't know what open-source means, probably didn't even see the open source link). There is no way they would have found your Ubuntu section on their own.

I urge you to offer Ubuntu as a choice of OSes in the system configuration wizard, the only way to really sell Ubuntu is to offer Ubuntu as a primary option, rather than a hidden alternative. I personally am looking to buy a new laptop, and you guys have always been my number 1 PC manufacturer (I don't think I've ever bought a new retail PC except from you guys), but I feel that your Ubuntu offerings are lacking. If you offered Ubuntu on some of the great deals you offer on your home page, I would be willing to pay just as much as I would for a Windows Vista system and I probably would have already ordered.


Please see john_h's comment
200 Comments »

21890

Make Linux and no Operating system standard options on all future products

Operating Systems submitted by jervis961 08/17/07 **REVIEWED**

OK Dell you have committed to supplying Linux options in limited form. Since you have laid the groundwork already here is the next step. Every new product you release that needs an Operating system should have Linux and also no Operating System as an option in the configuration along side Windows. Since you have to write drivers and test compatability for Vista when making a new product just make it compatable with Linux at the same time. There will no longer be a need for a seperate sections for Linux or no Operating system since all of the products will have the option. this will help make your site easier to navigate for you customers. You can also create an ACCURATE help me choose section for the OS choices.





Check out what daniel_j has to say on the options we offer.





188 Comments »

-100

ELECTRICAL COSERVATION DEVICE FOR BUSINESS & HOME

Dell submitted by mikep 07/11/07

DELL,
I have invented a device that has the function to save electricity to vaious degrees, depending on machine,or appliance being used. I have proven the ability of this device by actual trial. I have tried to apply for a patent, but due to high cost I was not able to pursue. This is a great idea for Production Businesses and for various Home Machines.

If Dell is interested in conversing about this please contact me at the following phone number or E-Mail:

Phone: 201-881-1116

E-Mail: MPECORARO@CRESTFOAM.COM
Sincerely,
Michael Pecoraro Comment »

0

Big Discounts for Military persons

Sales Strategies submitted by sangelnet 07/11/07

Discounts for the Military active and their family. 2 Comments »

200

Offer the Inspiron 1420 in Europe.

Inspiron products, Monitors and Displays submitted by crysalidzzz 07/04/07

The Inspiron 1420 with the 14 inch screen is not available in Europe. This is the notebook i wish to purchase. Fairly mobile and can be configured with an anti-glare screen.

The 1520/21 is available however. But a bit too big for my tastes. 6 Comments »

1340

Explain why you made Windows cheaper than Ubuntu again for the same hardware

Linux submitted by jmxz 07/07/07

Dell, you labeled the idea "Implemented: Ubuntu Dell is $50 Less Than Windows Dell" as "Implemented"
http://www.ideastorm.com/article/show/66879/Implemented_Ubuntu_Dell_is_50_Les...< a couple days later you made the Windows machine $275 cheaper than the equivalent Ubuntu machines.

Quoting jsgarvin in the comments on this idea:
http://www.ideastorm.com/article/show/68294/Same_discounts_available_on_Ubunt...

Just did my own 1420 vs 1420N comparison. The Windows machine comes with a free upgrade to 2GB Memory and 160GB Drive, which each cost more on the Ubuntu machine. Apparently, it's harder to install memory and hard drives on Linux??? Hmmm.. no, not that I recall. Anyway, with all the same options selected between the two machines, the Ubuntu Tax apparently is now running $275.
Just wait, it' won't be long before Dell pulls all the Ubuntu machines off the shelf and claims (again) that there's no market for Linux on home machines. Gee, wiz. I wonder why that is.


Now I know Ubuntu's a better OS; but c'mon - even I wouldn't pay a $275 premium for Ubuntu over Windows.

Or are you trying to kill the Ubuntu sales - and if so, just come out and say that? 14 Comments »

2710

Ubuntu PCs need more video card options

Accessories (Keyboards, etc.), Linux, Desktops and Laptops submitted by nkmhutirv 06/13/07

Dell desktops and notebooks preloaded with Ubuntu should have more video cards to choose from!

I do not know how Nvidia 7300LE compares to other video cards, but I do not belive TurboCache is suitable even for the most casual gaming.TurboCache's memory sharing technology is just not suitable. Yes, I do play 3d accelerated games from time to time on Ubuntu! You could offer some Nvidia 7600, 7800 or some other medium range video card. Nothing fancy, just something to allow some 3d effects.

Even Dell PCs preloaded with FreeDos have 2 video cards to choose from:

128MB ATI Radeon X1300 [Included in Price]

256MB ATI Radeon X1300 Pro [add $50 or $2/month1]

With Ubuntu PCs you have to choose between a range of just one video card:

correction: you have 2 options:

IntelĀ® Graphics Media Accelerator 950 [Included in Price]

256MB nVidia Geforce 7300LE TurboCache [add $50 or $2/month1]

But what's the difference between them? I want to play games 1-2 years old. I do not belive this will be posible with this kind of cards.

You could say Dell does not address gamers, but Dell's Windows based PCs have a lot more advanced video cards: "Stunning 3D graphics performance with the latest single and dual graphics cards in the market available". Unfortunately such advanced graphics is available only to Vista users, not even XP buyers!

Have you seen the noise (fuzz, amazement) 3d effects in Ubuntu have generated? You see, Ubuntu users appreciate 3d acceleration in Linux. Don't restrict them to just integrated graphics and TurboCache! 5 Comments »

3710

Support for Open Document Format

Operating Systems, Software submitted by lordshipmayhem 06/12/07

Dell should encourage support for Open Document Format:
- provide a page listing the benefits of ODF over proprietary formats (OOXML and other Microsoft "standards")
- Link to the home pages of applications that support ODF (OpenOffice.org, StarOffice, KOffice)

ODF is designed to be both platform and application agnostic: anyone who wants to write one, can create applications that allow you to use any ODF file, without losing file formatting. The objective is to allow any user to keep access to their data even if the maintainer of the application the data was saved in ends up going out of business or ending support for the application in question.

I don't know about you, but I have some files that were written in word processing software that no longer exists, in a couple of cases on platforms that don't exist outside of the hands of museums and collectors. Those files are at best extremely difficult if not utterly impossible to open now. 32 Comments »

11640

Make the dell ubuntu models available through the main webpage

Dell Web Site, Linux, Sales Strategies submitted by rajeevbhatta 06/19/07 **UNDER REVIEW**

Instead of having the model listings on a different webpage ( www.dell.com/open) have these models available from the product search you have on the main page or a link available through the main page (www.dell.com)

When I go to dell.com and I search for the product model numbers I never can find them I have to go to the other page and then I see it. The only thing I saw on the main page is a small flash ad which then takes you to the page.

Why cant you place these models with the other models on your page.........





30 Comments »

10530

Ubuntu on 12.1 or 13.3 inch laptops

Linux, Laptops submitted by miceagol 05/31/07 **PARTIALLY IMPLEMENTED**

Preload Ubuntu on your 12.1 (XPS M1210) or 13.3 inch (XPS M1330) laptops. As it is now, there's only one choice for a laptop, and that choice is not a light laptop. The 12.1 inch and 13.3 inch laptops are much better to carry around than heavy 15 inch++ laptops.




Check out the Idea in Action update.
80 Comments »

9200

Add all the OS's you sell to the "Help Me Choose: Operating System" page

Dell Web Site, Linux, Operating Systems submitted by jmxz 06/08/07

These pages: titled "Help Me Choose: Operating System" (a Dell help me choose page,another one)
only list some of the operating systems Dell sells.

I assume you also recommend Ubuntu for some home users (those who want better security and performance, I imagine) and FreeDOS for business (since that's what you sell on your Latitudes - even though I can't imagine why you prefer FreeDOS there over Ubuntu). But unless you put them in those pages, we can't easily make an informed choice. 15 Comments »

830

Ubuntu/Vista Laptop w/embedded webcam

Accessories (Keyboards, etc.), Linux, Laptops submitted by eode 07/04/07

I don't know if Dell's doing the embedded webcam thing yet, but if they are, it's not available for the Ubuntu laptops (that I've seen). It's a great feature for *any* laptop, whatever the OS. ..but I definitely want both Ubuntu and webcam on my laptop, and system76 provides those -- but I also want to support Dell and their move to support Ubuntu just as much!

..for now, this just delays my laptop purchase, in hopes that Dell's going to put out a laptop with an embedded webcam + Ubuntu..

p.s..
..if this were a congressional bill, it would also include:
Ubuntu Stickers
Stickers Don't Leave Sticky Goo
Charitable Reuse of Old Computers

..however, since this is not a congressional bill and doesn't include subsections that are potentially completely unrelated to the main heading, the above three articles are instead merely referenced and advocated here. :-) 3 Comments »

25160

Backlit Keyboards

Accessories (Keyboards, etc.), Sales Strategies, Desktops and Laptops submitted by rarmasu 02/21/07 **PARTIALLY IMPLEMENTED**

I find myself many, many times in dark or poorly lit environments having to guess the various keys - would be fantastic to have a backlit keyboard - with backlit individual keys as the best option.

I would actually pay extra for that convenience if the option was available.
This could be done for desktops or notebooks.


Check out Vida_K's comment below on the New Latitude.
303 Comments »

7170

ubuntu on my computer: open source for education

Education, Linux submitted by raymako 03/23/07 **UNDER REVIEW**

I am a french teacher working in the south of France .The school's computers are Dell and Nec computers.
Like most of my colleagues, I am using "opensource" (free) softwares, and specially Ubuntu for 2 years.
It works perfectly and the pupils who tried Ubuntu like it very much. I hope it will be possible to buy a Dell computer without Windows very soon and I hope that all the Dell computers of my school will use Ubuntu.
Not only because Ubuntu is free (even if it's not insignificant in a french school...) , but because working with Ubuntu forces you to understand and to think how and why you are using your (Dell) computer.
I know that I'm speaking and writing english language like a spanish cow, so I'm sorry.
I just want to finish my message with this: please be the first big computer manufacturer offering Ubuntu or Windows (which is very performant, but not the only one and specially at school) .





138 Comments »

6330

Linux Printing Solutions

Linux, Printers and Ink, Service and Support submitted by jfelisky 02/21/07

I have a Dell 3100cn laser printer, which was a nice purchase until I dropped Windows XP and moved to OpenSuSE on my home computer.

I've tried a lot of different message boards looking for a way to keep that printer, but I'm so frustrated with Dell's lack of Linux support that I have to consider HP, since the LaserJet family is more broadly supported. 53 Comments »



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