Tag: Refracta snapshot

MeX 64 bit Linux based on Debian “Sid” and Ubuntu 24.04 LTS with Ubuntu Desktop (Gnome 46) and Kodi 21.0 “Omega” :: Build 240707

07
Jul
2024

ABOUT MeX Linux 240707
I’ve uploaded a new version of MeX, in which I’ve included Kodi Omega 21.0 – latest version, released 240406. Kodi is an award-winning free and open source (GPL) software media player and entertainment hub that can be installed on Linux, OSX, Windows, iOS, tvOS and Android. It is designed around a “10-foot user interface” for use with televisions and remote controls. NOTE about Kodi: I have installed Kodi 21.0 using Flatpak. Kodi from the Ubuntu repositories does not work in Ubuntu 24.04. Kodi 21.0 runs very well in MeX. On a web site called FireStickTricks you can find instructions how to install 30 (?!) extra Kodi Builds with their own repositories and skins. The article is called Best Kodi Builds July 2024. I’ve tried Doomzday today. Works very well. Otherwise MeX version 240707 works in the same way as previous versions.

NEWS/CHANGES 240707
Mex Linux is no longer based on Linux Mint. MeX Build 240707 is based only on Debian Sid and Ubuntu 24.04 LTS Noble Numbat. I have replaced the original kernel (6.8) with “my” special kernel 6.9.8-amd64-exton. All installed packages in MeX Linux have been upgraded to the latest version by 240707. This version of MeX uses the Ubuntu Desktop Minimal. I.e. Gnome 46 Kathmandu and Kodi 21.0. You can run Kodi “windowed” while logged in to Gnome. The very nice icon theme Papirus is installed and used.

MORE MeX NEWS 240707
1. The MeX ISO is now a ISO-hybrid, which means that it can very easily be transferred (copied) to a USB pen drive.
2. Another big improvement is that MeX now can run from RAM. Use Boot alternative 2 (load to RAM). When the system has booted up you can eject the disc (DVD)/USB stick. You’ll need at least 4 GB RAM to run MeX that way. The ISO file is of only 2750 MB so MeX will run super fast from RAM!
3. I have replaced Google Chrome with Firefox. Google Chrome is no longer needed to be able to run Netflix in Linux.
4. The best thing with this new MeX build – Create your own installable Ubuntu 24.04 LTS Live System with Refracta Snapshot (pre-installed)! The whole “remaster process” is so simple that a 10 year old child can do it.
5. I have installed Calamares Installer as in many of my other Linux builds. Calamares is an installer framework. By design it is very customizable, in order to satisfy a wide variety of needs and use cases. Very easy to use. You can use Calamares to install MeX on both UEFI computers and non UEFI computers (for example VirtualBox and VMware).
6. VirtualBox Guest Additions are pre-installed so you can run MeX in full screen in VirtualBox. That can be done also in VMware Workstation Player. Btw: Sound works better in VMware (compared to VirtualBox). The system works very well in Qemu in Linux too. Using Qemu is the best way to run any Linux system virtually.

COMPATIBILITY
Differences: Ubuntu 24.04 and MeX Linux is different only in principle to the terms of program content. A general truth: If an original system can run on a particular computer an “Exton remaster” of the same original system can run on the same computer. I never change a Linux system for the worse in terms of auto configuration and hardware detection, etc. It happens that I replace the original kernel (which I have done in this case), but always to a “better” one with even more native support for various hardware etc.

Who can benefit from MeX?
All who like Debian/Ubuntu and want a system that is easy to use and maintain. And of course those who want to create their own Ubuntu 24.04 LTS system in a very simple way with Refracta Snapshot. Regarding MeX also those who want to run a Linux system super fast from RAM and/or like to run Linux from a USB flash drive. And those who want a new kernel – 6.9.8 – and the latest Kodi version – 21.0.

SCREENSHOTS
Screenshot 1 – Calamares Installer running
Screenshot 2 – The user Desktop
Screenshot 3 – Boot screen live
Screenshot 4 – System Info
Screenshot 5 – Showing some Kodi pre-installed add-ons
Screenshot 6 – MeX running in VMware

READ MORE…

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at
andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX 11 (with GAPPS), AndEX 10 (with GAPPS) and AndEX Pie 9.0 (also with GAPPS)!
and
about my Android 14, 13, 12, 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 5, Pi 4 and  Pi 3/2 at
raspex.exton.se – latest is RaspAnd 14 (with GAPPS), 13 and 12 (without GAPPS), RaspAnd 11 (with GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1
(also with GAPPS)!
No Comments extonExton Linux Systems

ExLight 64bit UEFI, Build 240614, based on Debian “Sid/Trixie” (unstable/testing) with Enlightenment 0.25.4 (stable) as DE, Refracta Snapshot and Calamares Installer

14
Jun
2024

NEWS 240614 ABOUT ExLight
I’ve made a new version of ExLight with the Enlightenment 0.25.4 Desktop environment, Refracta Snapshot (create your own Debian Sid/Trixie System) and Calamares 3.3.6-1 Installer Framework.

New sources 240614
This new version of ExLight is based on Debian Sid / Trixie (unstable/testing). Build 240614 is a total rebuild of ExLight. The ISO file size is of only 2140 MB, which means that you’ll need about 3GB RAM to run ExLight even faster from RAM. I.e. load to RAM – screenshot. You can remove the DVD or USB stick when ExLight has booted.

KERNEL
ExLight Build 240614 uses kernel 6.9.3-amd64-exton built from Debian kernel sources with Debian patches.

What’s new in Linux kernel 6.9?

Installed packages
Study all installed packages in ExLight Build 240614.

LOGIN PROBLEMS IN BUILD 240614
To be able to login to the Enlightenment 0.25.4 Desktop you’ll have to use a “fairly new” computer. According to my experience the computer can’t be older than about eight (8) years. After a live boot (from a USB stick or a DVD) you are supposed to be logged in automatically as the ordinary user user to the Enlightenment Desktop. If not you will end up in console mode logged in as user. For testing purposes you can do the following if you have a wired Internet connection. Run the following commands:
1. sudo apt update
2. sudo apt install lxde
3. nano .xinitrc
4. Change .xinitrc to exec startlxde
5. startx
You will now enter the LXDE Desktop. So the problem is really Enlightenment. I.e. not which Display Manager to use. I’ve tried with  LXDM, SLiM and finally LightDM . I’m grateful if somebody find a solution to the problem Enlightenment/login and notify me. I’ve found only one Internet post about the problem (with no solution unfortunately).
CONCLUSION: Use a “fairly new” computer if you want to run Enlightenment 0.25.4 in ExLight. I wrote this as a comment at my SourceForge site 221129:  I tried ExLight Build 220726 on a really old computer – Acer Aspire 5102WLMi from 2006. Running ExLight on that computer I got the same problems as the ones you have described. I.e. I could only log in from console mode. I could never reach the Enlightenment Desktop. I have therefore decided to upload a new version of ExLight with a new kernel (possibly the newest) and upgraded packages. That will probably happen today. If the new version won’t run on my old Aspire I have to say that ExLight only runs on fairly new computers. ExLight Build 240614 and 231005 has the same problem. I.e. using my old Acer I can’t reach the Enlightenment 0.25.4 Desktop whatever I do. I can run LXDE (and possibly other Desktop Environments) without problem though. Watch this screenshot.

WHAT’S NEW IN ExLight BUILD 240614?
NOTE: Version 240614 replaces version 231005.
1. ExLight is now based on Debian Sid / Trixie (unstable/testing).
2. I have upgraded the Desktop environment Enlightenment (“Beauty at your fingertips”) to version 0.25.4, which is the stable version of Enlightenment. There is a newer version (0.26.0-4) of Enlightenment, but it doesn’t work (yet). I have therefore “blocked” upgrades of Enlightenment with sudo apt-mark hold enlightenment. You can “unblock” Enlightenment with the command sudo apt-mark unhold enlightenment. Could possibly work to upgrade Enlightenment after a month or so.
3. I have replaced kernel 6.5.3-amd64-exton with kernel 6.9.3-amd64-exton. ExLight’s ISO file is now a ISO-hybrid, which means that it can very easily be transferred (copied) to a USB pen drive. You can then even run ExLight from the USB stick and save all your system changes on the stick. I.e. you will enjoy persistence!
5. Another big improvement is that ExLight can run from RAM. Use Boot alternative 2 (load to RAM). When the system has booted up you can remove the disc (DVD) or the USB stick. You will need at least 3 GB RAM to run ExLight that way.
6. This version of ExLight uses the Calamares Installer. Very simple to use! A new user (your user) will be created during the installation process. You can also install ExLight in your preferred language. You can as an alternative use Refracta Installer.
7. MOST IMPORTANT: I’ve added Refracta Snapshot, which make it possible for you to create your own live installable Debian Sid/Trixie system. I mean change everything to your liking, fire up Refracta Snapshot and wait 10 – 20 min until your new ISO is ready!

LOGIN and passwords
When you start up from the DVD or USB stick you will end up in Enlightenment logged in as the ordinary user user if your computer is “fairly new” – see above. You can log out from root’s Desktop screen and log in as root if you want. The password for the ordinary user user is live. The password for root (superuser) is root. NOTE: After a hard drive installation using Calamares the root password will be gone. To fix it log in as user with password live and run the command sudo passwd root.

VirtualBox and VMware
You can’t run ExLight Build 240614 in VirtualBox or VMware for some unknown reason. The system works very well in Qemu in Linux though. Using Qemu is the best way to run any Linux system virtually.

WIRELESS connections
In Build 240614 NetworkManager, WPA supplicant and ConnMan are installed. Use the one you prefer.
NOTE1: Study /etc/resolv.conf-WORKING and change it (if necessary) to suit your needs – screenshot. Keep a copy of resolv.conf-WORKING before you change the filename. Watch a screenshot showing how to use NetworkManager.
NOTE2: For WiFi connections you should use NetworkManager logged in as root.
NOTE3: On some computers it can be necessary to unblock WiFi before you can connect. Do it with the command rfkill unblock wifi

MOVIE about Calamares Installer
Watch a movie about the Calamares installation process in VirtualBox. You can use the Calamares Installer Framework to install ExLight to your computer in any language. You can even use Calamares in VirtualBox and VMware – i.e. non-efi computers. (Unfortunately not in this version of ExLight). Watch this animated GIF. (It’s for DebEX Budgie, but works in the same way in ExLight).

Or watch this slideshow.

Spotify
You can easily install Spotify in ExLight (even while running the system live). Just run the command sudo apt update followed by sudo apt install spotify-client.

Important about Refracta
You can use Refracta Snapshot (pre-installed in ExLight) to create your own installable Debian Sid/Trixie Live System once you have installed ExLight to hard drive. I mean change everything and then create a whole new Debian live system. When you start Refracta Snapshot it will look like this. You don’t even have to install ExLight to hard drive before you can use the Refracta Snapshot. If you have plenty of RAM you can create a new (your own!) Debian system while running ExLight from DVD or a USB stick. Please note that the whole Refracta process (creating your new ISO) only will take 10 – 50 min! You’ll find the ISO in /home/snapshot. Or change that by editing /etc/refractasnapshot.conf. NOTE: You may have to run Refracta Snapshot in three steps (1 – 3) before your new ISO is ready.

THE REAL McCoy
ExLight is a pure Debian system. I.e. no traces of Ubuntu, Kubuntu etc. New releases of Ubuntu are always based on Debian Sid. So is ExLight.

KNOWN ISSUES
After a hard drive installation using Calamares Installer (Not Refracta Installer) you’ll have three “problems”.
1. /etc/apt/sources.list will be different. Replace it with the file sources.list-use-after-install
2. The root password will be gone. Fix it by logging in as the ordinary user user and run the command sudo passwd root.
3. In order to see all icons in the menu you may have to change icons – watch this screenshot.
4. You can’t login to the Enlightenment 0.25.4 Desktop unless you use a “fairly new” computer – see above.

SCREENSHOTS
1. The Enlightenment 0.25.4 Desktop for user user
2. The Enlightenment 0.25.4 Desktop for root
3. Using NetworkManager for WiFi connections
4. Showing a Samba connection
5. ExLight running in Qemu -1-root
6. ExLight running in Qemu -2-user

Watch a YouTube Video about ExLight…

The Video is called “ExLight Linux – Lightest Distro I Have Ever Tried“. (It is not made by me).

exlight-logo-blue-textDOWNLOAD
ExLight Build 240614 Linux Live System can be downloaded from SourceForge.net – Fast, secure and free downloads from the largest Open Source applications and software directory.

You can also download ExLight from the Swedish Linux Society…

md5sum for exlight-64bit-sid-efi-e-0.25.4-refracta-calamares-2140mb-240614.iso

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at
andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX 11 (with GAPPS), AndEX 10 (with GAPPS) and AndEX Pie 9.0 (also with GAPPS)!
and
about my Android 13, 12, 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 4 and 3/2 at
raspex.exton.se – latest is RaspAnd 13 and 12 (without GAPPS), RaspAnd 11 (with GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1 (also with GAPPS)!
Follow me on Facebook…
No Comments extonExton Linux Systems

ExTiX Deepin 24.6 Live based on Deepin 23 RC (latest) with Refracta Snapshot and kernel 6.9.3-amd64-exton :: Build 240607

07
Jun
2024

NEWS 240607 ABOUT ExTiX with Deepin 23 RC (released 240515)
I’ve released a new version of ExTiX Deepin today (240607). The previous ExTiX Deepin version with Deepin 23 BETA 3 is from 240209. This ExTiX Build is based on Deepin 23 RC (latest version) released by Deepin Technology on May 15, 2024. Please read the Release Notes. As you can see the developers urge people to try Deepin RC in a non-production environment! I must say, though, that I haven’t discovered any “bugs”. And the installed programs won’t “crash” or anything like that. On the contrary ExTiX Deepin 24.6 with the Deepin DE 23 RC works pretty well I would say. ExTiX 24.6 uses kernel 6.9.3-amd64-exton. ExTiX 24.6 works in the same way as all other ExTiX versions. I.e. you can install it to hard drive while running the system live. Use Refracta Installer or Deepin Installer for that. You can also create your own live installable Deepin 23 system with Refracta Snapshot. (Using ExTiX 24.6 as a “base system/template”). So easy that a ten year old child can do it!

Study all installed packages in ExTiX Deepin 24.6.

NEW FUNCTIONS etc. in ExTiX 24.6 Deepin
1. VirtualBox Guest Additions are NOT pre-installed. No real need for them since you can run ExTiX in full screen in VirtualBox by just changing the screen resolution. Watch these screenshots:
A) extix-24.6-vbox-display1.jpg
B) extix-24.6-vbox-display2.jpg
2. You can run ExTiX from RAM. Use boot alternative 2 (load to RAM) or Advanced. A wonderful way to run Linux if you have enough RAM. Everything will be super fast. When ExTiX has booted up you can remove the DVD or USB stick.
3. You can use Deepin Installer as an alternative to Refracta Installer. Use Deepin Installer preferable on UEFI computers if you want/need to install or reinstall Grub.
4. I have installed Google Chrome 125.0.6422.141-1 as a replacement for Deepin’s Browser, which suddenly can be in Chinese(!?).
5. I’ve added Synaptic Package Manager. A must I think. Watch a screenshot when Synaptic is running.
6. You can watch Netflix while running Google Chrome.
7. You can install ExTiX Deepin also in VirtualBox/VMware using Refracta Installer or Deepin Installer. Use Deepin Installer preferably on UEFI computers if you need to install or reinstall Grub. Before doing that you should read my instruction How-to dual-boot, triple-boot or multi-boot Linux with Windows in a simple way and be happy…
NOTE1: If you already have at least one Linux system installed on your computer and use Grub as boot loader you don’t have to reinstall Grub. Just add start lines for ExTiX in /boot/grub.grub.cfg or /etc/grub.d/40_custom.
NOTE2: ExTiX 24.6 Deepin runs much better live from a USB stick or from hard drive after a hard drive installation. I mean compared to running ExTiX Deepin virtually in VirtualBox or VMware.
8. In version 240607 I’ve also included Refracta Installer. Use it in VirtualBox if you want to have an EXACT copy of ExTiX Deepin installed. You don’t have to “chroot” to install Grub. Just choose to “Copy Grub files” when asked to. Watch this movie..

Upgrade Deepin 23 RC to the stable 23 version of Deepin
Future upgrades are very easy to perform. Just run the command sudo apt update followed by sudo apt upgrade.

UNIQUE
I may add that there is no other “good” LIVE version in English of Deepin 23 RC.

Please read (and watch) a full enthusiastic review of ExTiX 22.12 with Deepin 20.8…

And here is another YouTube review of ExTiX 24.1 with Deepin 23 BETA 2…

SCREENSHOTS
1. ExTiX 24.6 running in VirtualBox after changing the screen resolution
2. ExTiX 24.6 running Refracta Installer
3. ExTiX 24.6 running Deepin Installer
4. ExTiX 24.6 showing a Samba connection
5. ExTiX 24.6 running Deepin AppStore 
6. ExTiX 24.6 running Spotify Web Player

READ MORE…

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at
andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX 11 (with GAPPS), AndEX 10 (with GAPPS) and AndEX Pie 9.0 (also with GAPPS)!
and
about my Android 13, 12, 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 4 and 3/2 at raspex.exton.se – latest is RaspAnd 13 and 12 (without GAPPS), RaspAnd 11 (with GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1 (also with GAPPS)!Follow me on Facebook…
No Comments extonExton Linux Systems

DebEX KDE Live System with KDE Plasma 5.27.10, Refracta Snapshot, Calamares and kernel 6.9.0-rc5-amd64-exton :: Build 240429

29
Apr
2024

NEWS 240429 about DebEX KDE Plasma – a Refracta Build
I have made a new extra version of DebEX KDE Plasma Live DVD – efi. It’s a pure Debian Sid/Trixie System. There are no Ubuntu or Kubuntu elements involved in DebEX. DebEX KDE Plasma Sid uses the KDE Plasma Desktop 5.27.10 – latest version, released 231205 – as Desktop environment. Kernel 6.9.0-rc5-amd64-exton is used. All included packages have been updated to the latest version as of 240429.

VirtualBox Guest Additions and VMware Tools are pre-installed, which mean that you can run DebEX KDE in full screen – see the screenshot below.

SCREENSHOTS
1. The Desktop for the ordinary user user
2. Running in full screen in VirtualBox

READ MORE…

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at
andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX 11 (with GAPPS), AndEX 10 (with GAPPS) and AndEX Pie 9.0 (also with GAPPS)!
and
about my Android 13, 12, 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 4 and 3/2 at raspex.exton.se – latest is RaspAnd 13 and 12 (without GAPPS), RaspAnd 11 (with GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1 (also with GAPPS)!
No Comments extonExton Linux Systems

DebEX Gnome Live System with Gnome DE 46, Refracta Snapshot, Calamares and kernel 6.9.0-rc5-amd64-exton :: Build 240426

26
Apr
2024

About DebEX Gnome Build 240426
I have made a new extra version of DebEX, which I call DebEX Gnome Live System. It’s a pure Debian system using the testing (Trixie) and unstable (Sid) repositories. Gnome 46 is used as Desktop Environment. I have removed the Mate Desktop, since Gnome now can be used on all kind of computers. Also when running DebEX Gnome in VirtualBox and VMware. No need for Nvidia’s proprietary graphics drivers when running this new version of DebEX. You can of course install such drivers if you want to. Furthermore I have replaced Google Chrome with Firefox ESR. It is now possible to watch Netflix movies using Firefox ESR in Linux. I have also replaced Refracta Installer with Calamares Installer, which makes it possible to install DebEX Gnome in any language. You can even use Calamares in VirtualBox and VMware – i.e. non-efi computers. All installed packages have been updated to the latest versions as of 240426.

Kernel
DebEX Gnome uses kernel 6.9.0-rc5-amd64-exton.

Note1: Refracta Installer is not really “replaced” by Calamares. You should use Refracta Installer in VirtualBox/VMware. If you do you don’t have to chroot to be able to install Grub.
Note2: VirtualBox Guest Additions are pre-installed, which means that you can run DebEX Gnome in full screen in VirtualBox. Watch this screenshot… 

SCREENSHOTS
1. Calamares Installer is running
2. Chroot in VirtualBox (to install Grub)
3. Refracta Snapshot is running
4. The Desktop for root
5. The Desktop for the ordinary user user
6. Netflix is running in Firefox
7. Showing a WiFi connection

READ MORE…

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at
andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX 11 (with GAPPS), AndEX 10 (with GAPPS) and AndEX Pie 9.0 (also with GAPPS)!
and
about my Android 13, 12, 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 4 and 3/2 at raspex.exton.se – latest is RaspAnd 13 and 12 (without GAPPS), RaspAnd 11 (with GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1 (also with GAPPS)!
No Comments extonExton Linux Systems

DebEX Barebone 32 bit – Build 240423 – based on Debian sid/trixie (upcoming Debian 13) with LXQt 1.4 and Refracta Snapshot

23
Apr
2024

NEWS 240423 about DebEX LXQt 32 bit Build 240423
I’ve made a new DebEX system for older computers. It uses LXQt 1.4  as Desktop environment. LXQt is a lightweight Qt desktop environment. It will not get in your way. It will not hang or slow down your system. It is focused on being a classic desktop with a modern look and feel. Only a minimum of packages are installed. The ISO file is of only 1610 MB! Refracta Snapshot is pre-installed also in this version of DebEX, which means that you can make your own Debian 32 bit (Intel x86 32-bit architecture) live installable system in a very simple way. I mean change everything to your liking and then create a new ISO.

What is it for?
This version of DebEX is mainly made for older computers. I could run and install DebEX LXQt without problems on my oldest computer. An Acer Aspire 5102WLMi from the year 2006. So now you too can bring back life to your (very) old computer!

Study all installed packages in Build 240423…

NOTES
NOTE1: This version of DebEX is based on Debian sid/trixie. Trixie (Debian 13) will replace Bookworm (Debian 12).
NOTE2: VirtualBox Guest Additions are pre-installed, which means that you can run DebEX LXQt in full screen in VirtualBox. Watch this screenshot…
NOTE3: You can’t watch Netflix in this version of DebEX: That’s because Google no longer support Widevine on 32 bit systems.
NOTE4:  I’ve arranged so that you can run DebEX LXQt also on UEFI computers. I.e. you can boot the System both in UEFI and Legacy mode.

SCREENSHOTS
1. Running in full screen in VirtualBox
2.  Refracta Snapshot is running
3.  The new ISO is ready
4.  The Desktop for the ordinary user user

READ MORE…

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at
andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX 11 (with GAPPS), AndEX 10 (with GAPPS) and AndEX Pie 9.0 (also with GAPPS)!
and
about my Android 13, 12, 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 4 and 3/2 at raspex.exton.se – latest is RaspAnd 13 and 12 (without GAPPS), RaspAnd 11 (with GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1 (also with GAPPS)!
No Comments extonExton Linux Systems

Run Raspberry Pi’s PIXEL Desktop on a PC or Mac – an Exton modified Build 240414 with Refracta Snapshot (so you can create your own Raspberrypi Debian 12 Pixel system)

14
Apr
2024

NEWS 240414 about Raspberry Pi Debian 12 Pixel – 32bit – an Exton Build
 Study all included packages in Build 240414 – latest by 240414. I’ve added NetworkManager and also Wicd, which makes it easier to configure wireless connections. Choose the one which works for you.

Most important changes in Build 240414
This build replaces version 161223 , 170425, 180316, 180928, 190705, 191102, 201108, 220505 and 230319. I’ve upgraded Raspbian/Debian from Bullseye  to Bookworm – Debian 12. I’ve also upgraded the kernel from 6.1.0-6-686-pae to 6.8.1-pae-exton. I’ve also included kernel 6.1.0-6-686, which shall be used on older computers. PAE (Physical Address Extension) increases the physical memory addressable by the system from 4 GB to 64 GB. Firefox have been installed so you’ll have a browser when logged in as root. You can’t run Chromium as root.  In Build 240414 I have removed Chromium. I saw no advantage in keeping it. You can run the system in full screen in VirtualBox. That’s because VirtualBox’s Guest Additions are pre-installed. Watch this screenshot. I’ve also installed Samba so that you can reach your Windows computers in your home network.

NOTE 1
This Debian PIXEL 32bit build is for UEFI and non-efi computers. So you can boot Debian PIXEL in both UEFI and Legacy mode.

NOTE 2
On certain Desktop computers you may have to start Debian PIXEL in “failsafe” graphics mode. I.e. nomodeset.

NEWS 180928 – a YouTube video about Debian Pixel
I’ve discovered a YouTube video about my Debian Pixel Build 170425. The video is called Debian Pixel..Exton forks it for you..
This video is of course also valid for Build 240414. By watching the video you can learn a lot about Debian Pixel’s features.

OLD NEWS FROM 161223
On December 22, 2016 I read that the Raspberry Pi Foundation had announced the release of a new PIXEL image that can be booted on a PC or Mac. Study this site. I saw immediately that there was no installer included, which I thought was a little disappointing. Come to think of Refracta Tools, which work very well in Debian and Ubuntu. I quickly made a “remix” of the Raspberry Pi Foundation PIXEL image. My remix thus include Refracta Tools. This means that you can easily install the system to hard drive and you can just as easily make your own remix of the Raspberry Pi Foundation PIXEL image. I’ve added a few packages. Most important Synaptic, which I find essential.

About the PIXEL Desktop
Raspbian (Raspberry Pi OS) had its biggest update ever in September, 2016, thanks to a dazzling new desktop environment called PIXEL. Raspbian with PIXEL (which stands for “Pi Improved Xwindow Environment, Lightweight”) is a huge software update to the desktop environment. It introduces a crisp new interface, and is brimming with new programs and features.

VirtualBox and VMware
My build/image works very well in VirtualBox and VMware. I.e. you can run the system directly from the ISO file and also install it to a virtual hard drive. You can of course also make your own Raspbian/Debian system with the the PIXEL Desktop using Refracta Snapshot (pre-installed). NOTE: As regards Build 240414 you can run the system in full screen in VirtualBox. That’s because VirtualBox’s Guest Additions are pre-installed. Watch this screenshot.

KERNEL
Kernel 6.8.1-pae-exton is used in Build 240414. PAE (Physical Address Extension) increases the physical memory addressable by the system from 4 GB to 64 GB. If you want to run the system (which is 32bit) on older computers you shall use kernel 6.1.0-6-686, which also is included.

Login and passwords
Log in to the PIXEL Desktop as the ordinary user user or as root. The passwords are raspberry respectively root. When logged in as user you can use Sudo to become root. (Command: sudo su). When running Debian Pixel live (from a DVD or a USB stick) you’ll end up (after the boot process) logged in automatically as the user user in X (PIXEL Desktop).

Windows Virtual Desktop on Azure
For smoother Raspberry PI performance a virtual PC such as azure windows virtual desktop which can be the best option due to its high end functionality and 24*7 top-notch support from a reliable desktop as a service provider.

Runs from RAM
Another great thing is that this build can run from RAM. Use Boot alternative 2 (load to RAM). When running Debian Pixel on an UEFI computer you shall go to “Advanced – load to RAM”.  When the system has booted up you can remove the disc (DVD) or the USB stick. You’ll need at least 4 GB RAM to run the system that way. I.e. super fast!

Spotify
You may want to run Spotify. In this version of Debian Pixel you can’t install Spotify with the command sudo apt install spotify-client. Too many unfulfilled dependencies. You can, however, run Spotify Web Player. Use Firefox for that. Watch a screenshot when Spotify Web Player is running.

Important about Refracta
You can use the Refracta Snapshot (pre-installed) to create your own installable Raspberry Pi Debian 12 PIXEL system once you have installed my build to hard drive. I mean change everything and then create a whole new Debian live system. Start Refracta from Menu >> System tools >> Refracta snapshot. You don’t even have to install my build to hard drive before you can use the Refracta Snapshot. If you have plenty of RAM you can create a new (your own!) Debian PIXEL system while running my build from DVD or a USB stick. Please note that the whole Refracta process (creating your new ISO file) will only take 20 – 60 min! Please edit the configuration file /etc/refractasnapshot.conf first. Change line 45 and 46. I.e. decide where you want the ISO file to be build. The whole thing is very simple. NOTE: You can also do everything in VirtualBox or VMware. Use FileZilla (pre-installed) to transfer your new ISO file to your server. Or use Samba to transfer the ISO file to one of your Windows computers in your home Network – screenshot. In VirtualBox you can also drop the new ISO directly on your host Desktop. NOTE: You may have to do run Refracta Snapshot in three steps (1, 2 , 3).

Install to Debian PIXEL hard drive
Just start Refracta Installer from the Menu >> System tools >> Refracta Installer and follow the instructions. Very simple. After a hard drive installation Grub’s boot menu will look like this.



Install Debian PIXEL to a USB stick
You can use Rufus in Windows. Persistence can’t be enabled though. The best way to achieve persistence on a USB stick is to burn Debian PIXEL to a DVD, start up the system from the DVD and then use Refracta Installer for the installation. Choose to install Grub in MBR on /dev/sdb. (Normally your USB stick, but check it carefully!) I.e. you will get a chance to choose between /dev/sda and /dev/sdb. This method will give you perfect persistence.

Watch the slideshow below showing the Refracta installation process in Debian PIXEL.

Windows Virtual Desktop on Azure
For smoother Raspberry PI performance a virtual PC such as azure windows virtual desktop which can be the best option due to its high end functionality and 24*7 top-notch support from a reliable desktop as a service provider.

SCREENSHOTS
Screenshot 1 – User Desktop 240414
Screenshot 2 – Debian PIXEL running in VirtualBox in full screen
Screenshot 3 – Samba running (reach your Windows computers in your network)
Screenshot 4 – The installation is ready
Screenshot 5 – Spotify Web Player running

DOWNLOAD
my Debian Raspberry Pi PIXEL Build 240414 for free from SourceForge.net – Fast, secure and free downloads from the largest Open Source applications and software directory.

md5sum for debian-12-pixel-32bit-pae-exton-build-1900mb-240414.iso
Raspberry Pi is a trademark of Raspberry Pi Foundation

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at
andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX 11 (with GAPPS), AndEX 10 (with GAPPS) and AndEX Pie 9.0 (also with GAPPS)!
and
about my Android 13, 12, 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 4 and 3/2 at
raspex.exton.se – latest is RaspAnd 13 and RaspAnd 12 (without GAPPS), RaspAnd 11 (with GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1 (also with GAPPS)!
No Comments extonExton Linux Systems

Exton|Defender based on upcoming Fedora 41 with Gnome 46, Cinnamon 6.0 and Refracta Snapshot :: Build 240331

31
Mar
2024

Exton|Defender SRS is a Linux system available as a Live DVD based on Fedora Rawhide, 64bit. (Rawhide is the development version of Fedora). Exton|Defender is for administrating or repairing your system and data after a crash. Exton|Defender aims to provide an easy way to carry out admin tasks on your computer, such as creating and editing the hard disk partitions. It comes with a lot of Linux software such as system tools and basic tools (editors, Midnight Commander, network tools). Exton|Defender can, however, also be used as a normal Linux Desktop System. It requires no hard drive installation, but can easily be installed to hard drive if you want. Desktop environments: Special versions of Gnome 46 and Cinnamon 6.0 developed by Fedora.

NEWS 240331 ABOUT Exton|Defender BASED ON upcoming Fedora 41
I have discovered a way to run Exton|Defender fc41 from RAM also when starting Exton|Defender in UEFI mode. The previous Exton|Defender fc40 version could only run from RAM if it started up in Legacy mode. So my advice is to run this version SUPER FAST from RAM! The best way to run a Linux Live System! When Exton|Defender has booted up you can remove/eject the USB stick or the DVD. NOTE ALSO: In version 240331 I’ve managed to change Refracta Installer and Refracta Snapshot to GUI (Graphical User Interface) apps! They are therefore even easier to handle now! IMPORTANT NOTE: On some computers Exton|Defender still can’t run from RAM in UEFI mode. Only in Legacy mode. I don’t know why. Sort of a mystery.

System Tools included
NTFS-3g, GParted, PartImage, Shred, Sfdisk (util-linux-ng), Rsync, Ddrescue, FSArchiver, TestDisk and Midnight Commander. Other programs (among many others): NetworkManager, Firefox, Parole Media Player, Samba, Java and Java Runtime Environment (JRE), Emacs, Safecopy, kernel headers and many compilation tools. Exton|Defender uses kernel 6.8.2-amd64-exton when running LIVE. Study all installed packages…

About Fedora
Please read this overview.

THE IMPORTANCE OF Exton|Defender being based on upcoming Fedora 41
Programs won’t “crash” or anything like that. And I haven’t noticed any “bugs”. That said you should of course be a bit careful. This version of Exton|Defender is for people who like to use “cutting-edge” software and the latest kernels etc. You will always have the latest Linux/Fedora software installed if you regularly run the command sudo dnf upgrade ‐‐refresh or just sudo dnf upgrade.

SCREENSHOTS
Screenshot 1 – Exton|Defender  – running in full screen in VirtualBox
Screenshot 2 – Chroot and installing Grub
Screenshot 3 – Gnome 46 DE is used
Screenshot 4 – Refracta Snapshot has started

READ MORE…

 

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at
andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX 11 (with GAPPS), AndEX 10 (with GAPPS) and AndEX Pie 9.0 (also with GAPPS)!
and
about my Android 13, 12, 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 4 and 3/2 at
raspex.exton.se – latest is RaspAnd 13 and 12 (without GAPPS), RaspAnd 11 (with GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1 (also with GAPPS)!

 

 

 

No Comments extonExton Linux Systems

ExTiX Deepin 24.2 Live based on Deepin 23 BETA 3 (latest) with Refracta Snapshot and kernel 6.7.4-amd64-extix :: Build 240209

09
Feb
2024

NEWS 240209 ABOUT ExTiX with Deepin 23 BETA 3
I’ve released a new version of ExTiX Deepin today (240209). The previous ExTiX Deepin version with Deepin 23 BETA 2 is from 240110. This ExTiX Build is based on Deepin 23 BETA 3 (latest version) released by Deepin Technology on February 2, 2024. Please read the Release Notes. As you can see the developers urge people to try Deepin BETA 3 in a non-production environment! I must say, though, that I haven’t discovered any “bugs”. And the installed programs won’t “crash” or anything like that. On the contrary ExTiX Deepin 24.2 with the Deepin DE 23 BETA 3 works pretty well I would say. I have nevertheless kept ExTiX 22.12 with Deepin 20.8 on the server. Deepin 20.8/20.9 is the stable version released 221208. ExTiX 24.2 uses kernel 6.7.4-amd64-extix. ExTiX 24.2 works in the same way as all other ExTiX versions. I.e. you can install it to hard drive while running the system live. Use Refracta Installer for that. You can also create your own live installable Deepin 23 system with Refracta Snapshot. (Using ExTiX 24.2 as a “base system/template”). So easy that a ten year old child can do it!

Study all installed packages in ExTiX Deepin 24.2.

Changes in Build 240209
1. A new kernel – 6.7.4-amd64-extix (latest as of 240209) – is used.
2. All packages have been updated to the latest available version as of 240209. More than 1400 upgrades and about 250 new packages.
3. I have installed Google Chrome 120.0.6099.199-1 as a replacement for Deepin’s Browser, which suddenly can be in Chinese(!?).
4. Some cosmetic changes. I.e. new wallpapers.

UNIQUE
I may add that there is no other LIVE version of Deepin 23/20.8.

Please read (and watch) a full enthusiastic review of ExTiX 22.12 with Deepin 20.8…

SCREENSHOTS
1. ExTiX 24.2 running in full screen in VirtualBox (VirtualBox Guest Additions are pre-installed)
3. ExTiX 24.2 running Refracta Installer
4. ExTiX 24.2 LightDM Login Screen
5. ExTiX 24.2 Live Boot Screen

READ MORE…

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at
andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX 11 (with GAPPS), AndEX 10 (with GAPPS) and AndEX Pie 9.0 (also with GAPPS)!
and
about my Android 13, 12, 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 4 and 3/2 at raspex.exton.se – latest is RaspAnd 13 and 12 (without GAPPS), RaspAnd 11 (with GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1 (also with GAPPS)!

Follow me on Facebook…

1 Comment extonExton Linux Systems

ExTiX Deepin 24.1 Live based on Deepin 23 BETA2 (latest) with Refracta Snapshot and kernel 6.6.10-amd64-extix :: Build 240110

10
Jan
2024

NEWS 240110 ABOUT ExTiX with Deepin 23 BETA2
I’ve released a new version of ExTiX Deepin today (240110). The previous ExTiX Deepin 23 version is from 230924. This ExTiX Build is based on Deepin 23 BETA2 (latest version) released by Deepin Technology on September 18, 2023. Please read the Release Notes. As you can see the developers urge people to try Deepin BETA2 in a non-production environment! I must say, though, that I haven’t discovered any “bugs”. And the installed programs won’t “crash” or anything like that. On the contrary ExTiX Deepin 24.1 with the Deepin DE 23 BETA2 works pretty well I would say. I have nevertheless kept ExTiX 22.12 with Deepin 20.8 on the server. Deepin 20.8/20.9 is the stable version released 221208. ExTiX 24.1 uses kernel 6.6.10-amd64-extix. ExTiX 24.1 works in the same way as all other ExTiX versions. I.e. you can install it to hard drive while running the system live. Use Refracta Installer for that. You can also create your own live installable Deepin 23 system with Refracta Snapshot. (Using ExTiX 24.1 as a “base system/template”). So easy that a ten year old child can do it!

Study all installed packages in ExTiX Deepin 24.1.

Used KERNEL
My special kernel 6.6.10-amd64-extix corresponding Kernel.org’s latest stable kernel 6.6.10.

Upgrade Deepin 23 to the stable 23 version of Deepin
Future upgrades are very easy to perform. Just run the command sudo apt update followed by sudo apt upgrade.

Please read (and watch) a full enthusiastic review of ExTiX 22.12 with Deepin 20.8…

And here is another YouTube review of ExTiX 23.9 with Deepin 23 BETA…

UNIQUE
I may add that there is no other LIVE version of Deepin 23/20.8.

SCREENSHOTS
1. ExTiX 24.1 running in full screen in VirtualBox (VirtualBox Guest Additions are pre-installed)
2. ExTiX Deepin 24.1 (first) Desktop after boot on EFI computers
3. ExTiX 24.1 running Refracta Snapshot
4. ExTiX 24.1 LightDM Login Screen
5. ExTiX 24.1 running Deepin App Store

READ MORE…

Read about my Android-x86 Systems – 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, Lollipop and KitKat at
andex.exton.net – latest is AndEX 11 (with GAPPS), AndEX 10 (with GAPPS) and AndEX Pie 9.0 (also with GAPPS)!
and
about my Android 13, 12, 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow and Lollipop versions for Raspberry Pi 4 and 3/2 at raspex.exton.se – latest is RaspAnd 13 and 12 (without GAPPS), RaspAnd 11 (with GAPPS) and RaspAnd Oreo 8.1 (also with GAPPS)!
No Comments extonExton Linux Systems
1 2 3 … 15