I think the 'intimidation' of linux is a problem that some of us who
started on a Sinclair or TRS-80 migrated via Lisa to Mac or DOS and have
no fear of command line, just don't understand.
There are a vast number of "Computer Literate" people who can barely
operate the things, and rely on plug 'n' play software created for the
mass market.
In the same way millions of people can drive a car but have no idea what
goes on under the bonnet or wherever they put the engine and drive train.
There will always be car enthusiasts who build motors and chassis and
proudly drive their car which requires a body of knowledge that you just
learn.
Same goes with Rivendell and Linux.
I have[had] a book on the basics of Linux [which I have lent out to
someone and I can't remember who] which explained the stuff you need to
know on any linux. Essentially the commands are more or less the same as
DOS and the basic kit of programs are pretty much the same. The story of
the origins of each command and each program is pretty much the same as
the competition on a stock car track. Everyone has their own way!
I think it was Linux for Dummies.
Whoever sets up each linyx system establishes an "agreed" directory tree
which have names which mean something; like "bin" and "local"; and the
people who create programs set them up to go in to the tree in a more or
less consistent manner.
That nothing is the same between distributions [of which there are many]
and often not between releases of distributions [ which can render
something that worked on V 1.0 inoperative on V1.1] can drive you nuts,
but when you understand how Linux came about and has evolved, it's
something you can live with because you don't have to "upgrade" a
working system.
The trick is getting a system that works for you.
Acquiring a working knowledge of Linux is a good start.
Since the program you want to run comes 'ready to roll' on Centos 6 then
getting familiar with Centos 6 is a good idea.
The appliance CD runs a cut down KDE desktop. Getting used to it is easy
enough.
You will have people tell you that [insertnameofdistribution] is better
because of this or that; mostly because it may be the one they know, or
because the desktop looks pretty.
You can make any linux program run on any distribution if you are
prepared to hack through the various things that are required to make it
work.
I spent a long time in the early days trying to make Mandriva do what I
wanted. Learn't a lot.
There are working releases of Rivendell on Ubuntu and no doubt other
variants.
The desktop options are many. Yes some have some wonderful features.
I get people looking at a dedicated playout machine asking "how do I
access the internet on this?".
The answer is get new people; but that's not always possible.
If you are coming in new I recommend you run the Appliance install.
Checklist:
decide what your machines fixed ip will be. If you name computers;
decide on a name.
keep a list in a notebook, the one you use with a pencil.
If the MB has on board network find a pci network card as a backup
[centos does not find all on board network cards first up]
You need a 64 bit machine.
make sure it has slots for cards; new ones are very short on slots.
2GB min 4GB pref Ram
You need enough storage for music. Run a 500 gb drive for the OS and 1,2
or 3TB as /var/snd
3TB may not work on your motherboard. Check
Get the best sound card you can afford. Check before you buy that it is
ALSA compatible.
There are a whole bunch of cards which no longer work on any system.
They are all on sale.
Replace fans with 'silent running' fans.
Set cmos so computer powers on with power applied.
Whatever is on this computer is going to be erased: take appropriate action.
Allow time: Formatting 3TB takes a while
Run the install and work through having the data drive installed as /var/snd
The centos setup interface is intuitive but if you are new to linux and
the 'how stuff gets mounted' you may need help.
Round every corner there is always a geeky kid who knows all this stuff
and is happy to show you.
Pizza is cheap.
Creating a manual with every option for every possibility will be a huge
task. I have a number of HowTo's which have documented the things I have
had to learn to do. Need a cold wet weekend with no calls to investigate
mysterioys hum in programe chain!
Hope this helps
good luck with the install.
Robert
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