The Dell Mini Project

What Ubuntu version is the Mini 9 shipped with ? How can I use my Verizon wireless usb modem on it ?

Asked by Taylor

I am trying to install Verizon Wireless' VZ access manager in my new Dell mini so i can use my wireless usb modem. not quite sure what the OS is on this machine. Since it doesn't have a CD drive i have to go about the hard way and download it from the Verizon website. Please Help.

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Jim Hutchinson (jphutch) said : 		#1

Can you find an "about" option anywhere? If it's Ubuntu (and it could be) there is a system menu with "about Ubuntu". If you don't see the system menu it's because Ubuntu on a Dell is a slightly changed version with a different menu system. Looks like a big bar with icons and when you click one more options open. I kind of like it but you can turn it off. I think it's an option under the menu bar at the top.

Anyway, if you have Ubuntu you are off to a good start. It's a very secure, stable OS that is not prone to the issues of windows and includes a lot of software that you would usually end up paying for in windows. There is also tons more free software you can access and install with just a few clicks. The Dell version moved a few things around and I can't remember exactly where they are but look for an option called "add/remove" or "synaptic package manager". The first is a slimmed down version of the later that focuses only on the most common software.

As for your issue with the Verizon software, that is almost certainly designed for windows. Windows software doesn't work in Ubuntu (fyi, there is a project called WINE that addresses that) so you may have to look for alternative or check with Verizon if they have a Linux version and complain if they don't. They need to hear from customers about needs before they will address any. It's possible, however, that you can get the USB modem working with native Linux (Ubuntu is Linux) tools. You might search around the various forums for an answer or post a new question like "how do I get my wireless usb modem to work in Ubuntu?"

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Mark Rijckenberg (markrijckenberg) said : 		#2

Hi,

If you are using the Verizon EVDO USB720 Wireless dongle on Ubuntu (but need more info to be sure...), then try this procedure:

http://www.lighty2go.com/linux/29/linux-love-for-the-verizon-evdo-usb720/

or this procedure:

http://www.jasons.org/2008/09/02/howto-verizon-um175-usb-evdo-card-under-ubuntu-hardy/

Regards,

Mark

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Fabián Rodríguez (magicfab) said : 		#3

To find the Ubuntu version you are running go to System > Administration > System Monitor and click on the first tab.

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