I continue to use Ubuntu as my primary OS and encourage it's use.
Ask Ubuntu is a novel new help system, but rather confusing and intimidating to start... so watch the video that I linked below to get a feel for what it is all about.
Ubuntu Developer Channel (video) is a new service, worth reviewing for those simple Q&A things.
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As a side note, it is curious how it is kind of like a Bulletin Board, but not. The basic setup explained in the video shows how the implementation precludes the site from becoming a chat room or heaven for trolls.
I agree that Ubuntu is one fine operating system. If I could run a surveying business on it, I would. But I don't think Peter is suggesting that.
I have used Unix based systems since 1983 and have run entire companies with up to 30+ users on one server.
On the desktop, however, it might not be something you would be looking for as a surveyor. Yes, you can run a lot of dos and windows programs under emulation in linux but when you call Autodesk, Trimble, Leica, or Topcon for support with a problem, they are going to go dead silent when they find out about your OS. And yes, you will have a problem at some point.
No one dislikes Microsoft any more than I do but we all have to get work out the door.
I know people who run their businesses entirely on Ubuntu or some other flavor of linux. But none of them are surveyors. They are graphic artists, wholesalers, or something other than surveying or engineering companies. I wish it were otherwise.
No one would be happier than me to see Autodesk and proprietary surveying applications supported on linux.
I have 2 survey critical programs that require a USB dongle. So far, WINE (Wine Is Not an Emulator) won't recognize them so I can't run either. Otherwise, I'd change to Ubuntu in a heartbeat. Terramodel basic runs just fine without the dongle but I don't have access to most of the higher functions.
In fact, I have 4 older computers which are either dual boot XP & Ubuntu, or straight Ubuntu. I love it. It comes with Open Office, Firefox, and Evolution mail along with numerous other programs. Others are available on the repositories. It is virtually virus proof and patches for problems are available daily.
Ubuntu's standard Help (?) system is practically useless. However, if you check into their user forums, you can get just about any help you need. There are expert moderators in each forum besides many other experienced users. Many people get help with problems within minutes of posting their problems.
One of the nicest things - although it has a graphical as well as command line interface, it is NOT WINDOWS, and is free.