I just finished installing Mandrake 9.2 on one of our old Compaq computers at home. Wasn't too bad except the Video card doesn't seem to be very compatible with Linux (S3 Savage 4).. still can't get startx to run

For our next home computer, I'd really like to build it myself. Normally when I was doing windows computers, it didn't make much of a different financially, but without needing to purchase an OS.. it becomes a much better option.

Couple questions. One, how can I find a list of hardware that Mandrake would support? I've checked on Mandrake's webpage, and they claim that the S3 Savage 4 video card is supposedly supported, but then when I'm installing Mandrake it insists it is not (and I've found multiple web references to errors with that video card). If I'm purchasing hardware for Linux, I do not want incompatibility problems.

Two, is there a list of websites listed somewhere for purchasing pieces of computers? It's been awhile since I've gone anywhere except for Best Buy.. I want to shop around, but I'd like to have some starting point.

Well, hope you can help

PriceWatch is the first place I go whenever looking for computer components. One good parts store online that's really good is NewEgg.com; their prices are reasonable and they have great service!

Not sure what to tell you about compatibility, though... Most of the time you'll probably be okay on that issue. The Savage4 is a piece of junk, IMHO - I have one also and it has been nothing but problems (both in Linux and Windows) since the day I got it.