Linux vs Windows

1) I donøt think that I should be any problems around the modem, mine is a Dell Inspiron 4000, and no problems with that modem. Mandrake 9.2 and 10.0 found the modem with no problems.

2) You can always use The Gimp as Graphic Editor... a good one also!

3) The Mandrake ControlCenter, will help you through the sharing of The files between Windows and Linux... you should figure this out with no problems

You can alwayes get helt here: www.linuxin.dk

1: Most likely not, but that one I cannot guarantee. What is the exact make of that modem?
2: The Gimp http://www.gimp.org/ is probably closest to what you are looking for. However, remember that you can actually get Photoshop to work under linux if you invest $60 in CodeWeavers CrossOver Office http://www.codeweavers.com
3: Yes, Samba was made to connect Linux and Windows computers with the SMB protocol which is the one Windows uses for filesharing. Linux with Samba can both share files, as well as retrieve from Windows shares.

I think that Mandrake is the Distro for the first time user... it's really easy to configure og to handel, an the Mandrake Control Center, can almost do anything for you...

you might check this out for configuration on the laptop...

http://www.linux-on-laptops.com/dell.html

1) Apparently no Linux drivers exist for the modem in the Inspiron 3800. (At least according to the pages I read after following zyphon's link.)

2) Depending on your specific needs, the Gimp may og may not be the right choice for you. If you mostly edit graphics for use on computers, or for non-professional printout, the Gimp will likely cater just nicely to all your needs. However, if you need really professional quality printouts, you will probably find the Gimp rather lacking, as it has next to no support for CMYK seperation.

3) Samba is what you need. Set it up though the Control Center.

Thanks mates!

Best regards
Fredrik

Just like to mention, that I installed Photoshop 6 on mandrake the other day using wine. Worked like a charm. Used wine, which is a free program and is included in the distro.

Do as describe in http://home.worldonline.dk/helgec/ (danish language)and it will work im'mediately.