It is very difficult to find free software compatible hardware, one that runs
with fully free distros like Trisquel.
If laptops from thinkpenguin are too expensive for you, here are some clues
too look for:
The machine actually boots with Trisquel (some motherboards make problems
because of their ACPI).
Intel GMA graphics. 4xxx series works well.
The WiFi should be from Atheros (if you intend on using wireless LAN).
Best possible way to know if all the hardware works, is to boot the machine
with a live-usb stick.
To check 3D support:
install the package mesa-utils on your live-stick beforehand. Run "glxgears"
from the terminal on the booted machine. If you see 3D gears turning, with an
fps rate same as the refresh rate of the monitor (should be 60 or 75 Hz), you
can be assured there is 3D support and you will be able to use the compiz
effects for rendering the desktop (makes it easier on the CPU and speeds up
the animations of all windows etc.).
To see if the WiFi is supported, make sure you turned the W-LAN feature on
(some laptops have a switch for that. Sometimes it is the same switch as for
the Bluetooth). Then you should see a wireless icon in the tray. Click on it,
search for networks. There should be some nearby. Accessing them will
probably be impossible because of security features, but at this point you
can be assured the wireless chip is working.
