Validating Laptops?

It is difficult to try to determine if a particular laptop has a chance of
running Linux - without buying it, that is. The websites that cater to
the problem do their best, but it is very seldom that any critique matches
something that you can find in the stores, since models seem to change
about every 3 days.

A couple of times, I have taken a PDA full of the latest compatibility
charts to the store and failed to find a single match.

So, it occurred to me to try an in-store test using a Live-CD, such as
Knoppix. I haven't done it yet, but Best Buy and Frys said "Sure, bring
it on." Circuit City said no since it is illegal to put anything but
Windows on a PC. (Actually, I think he was trying to say that even if you
run another OS, you have to leave Windows on to remain legal.)

Needless to say, I suggested that he take up cabbage farming since it is
doubtful that he will ever make a successful career in the IT industry.

So... Anybody think that this would be (at least) an indicator of whether
a LT is Linux friendly or not?

Or, please kick holes in this idea if you can.

Thanks all.
RMK




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