Pardus Linux 2008 RC2

Ekin Meroğlu has announced the availability of the second release candidate for Pardus Linux 2008: "We're happy to announce Pardus Linux 2008 RC2, hopefully the last release candidate for upcoming Pardus 2008. This release includes a whole bunch of bug fixes and enhancements, as well as new features of Pardus' own tools and underlying technologies. Many package updates are available too: some are in the install CD and some are in the repositories, just a few clicks away. We would like to remind you that this is not a final version, and should not be installed on production machines. We did our best to fix all bugs, however should you find one, do not hesitate to enter a report in our bug reporting system. Also, we would be happy to hear about your experiences in our pardus-users email list." Here is the brief release announcement. Download: Pardus_2008_RC2.iso (697MB, MD5).

Mozilla Firefox 3.0 - Final + Portable

Mozilla Firefox - faster, more secure, easier to use and sporting a new look, this latest Firefox release sets a new standard for web browser innovation. Mozilla Firefox project (formerly Firebird, which was formerly Phoenix) is a redesign of Mozilla's browser component, written using the XUL user interface language and designed to be cross-platform. It is small, fast and easy to use, and offers many advantages over other web browsers, such as the tabbed browsing and the ability to block pop-up windows.

Mozilla Firefox 3 is focused on improved memory handling, performance, and stability, improved XUL, and new core components such as application data stored in SQLite. Mozilla Firefox 3 could break a few existing extensions and applications built on top of Firefox, and it will definitely include new optimizations if you like to build on the popular browser. Mozilla Firefox 3 should have additional JavaScript and SVG features if you're into that sort of thing.

Features in Firefox include:
- Easy migration: Switching to Firefox has never been easier now that Firefox imports data like Favorites, history, settings, cookies and passwords from Internet Explorer. Firefox can also import settings from Mozilla 1.x, Netscape and Opera.
- Smaller Download: Continuing efforts to make this the most efficient browser, the Windows version of Firefox is now only a 4.7 MB download, making downloading Firefox a breeze for dial-up and broadband users alike.
- New Default Theme: A new default theme provides a bright new look for Windows and Linux users.
- SmartUpdate: A new SmartUpdate feature notifies users of new versions of Firefox to ensure that the browser is always up to date.
- Help: A new online help system makes this one powerful, friendly browser.
- Extension/Theme Manager: New Extension and Theme Managers provide a convenient and secure way to manage and update the hundreds of add-ons that set Firefox apart from other browsers.
Mozilla Firefox also includes numerous bug fixes and incremental improvements, including faster page load speed.
- Popup Blocking: Stop annoying popup ads in their tracks with Firefox's built in popup blocker.
- Tabbed Browsing: View more than one web page in a single window with this time saving feature. Open links in the background so that they're ready for viewing when you're ready to read them.
- Smarter Search: Google Search is built right into the toolbar, and there are a plethora of other search tools including Keywords (type "dict " in the Location Bar), and FastFind (start typing the first few letters of some text in the page and Firefox takes you there).
- Privacy and Security: Built with your Security in mind, Firefox keeps your computer safe from malicious spyware by not loading harmful ActiveX controls. A comprehensive set of privacy tools keep your online activity your business.
- Hassle-Free Downloading: Files you download are automatically saved to your Desktop so they're easy to find. Fewer prompts mean files download quicker.
- Fits Like a Glove: Simple and intuitive, yet fully featured, Firefox has all the functions you're used to - Bookmarks, History, Full Screen, Text Zooming to make pages with small text easier to read, etc.
- S M L XL XXL XXXL: Firefox is the most customizable browser on the planet. Customize your toolbars to add additional buttons, install new Extensions that add new features, add new Themes to browse with style, and use the adaptive search system to allow you to search an infinite number of engines. Firefox is as big or small as you want.
- Setup's a Snap: At only 4.7MB (Windows), Firefox only takes minutes to download over a fast connection. The installer gets you set up quickly, and the new Easy Transition system imports all of your settings - Favorites, passwords and other data from Internet Explorer and other browsers - so you can start surfing right away.
- A Developer's Best Friend: Firefox comes with a standard set of developer tools including a powerful JavaScript and CSS error/warning console, and an optional Document Inspector that gives unheard of insight into how your pages work.
- Read Mail—Not Spam

Release Notes

Homepage - http://www.mozilla.org/products/firefox/

Download Firefox 3.0 for Windows - 7.15 MB

Download Firefox 3.0 for Linux - 8.66 MB

Download Firefox 3.0 for MacOS - 17.1 MB

All Downloads

Download Firefox 3.0 Portable

Official Forceware 177.35 WHQL All Flavours, Also 177.13 for Linux

Version: 177.35
Release Date: 2008/06/17
Operating Systems Win XP/Vista | x86/x64

Release Highlights

QUOTE

* Adds support for GeForce GTX 280 and GeForce GTX 260 GPUs.
* Supports single GPU and NVIDIA SLI™ technology* on DirectX 9 and OpenGL.
* Adds beta support Folding@home distributing computing application.
* Supports GPU overclocking and temperature monitoring by installing NVIDIA System Tools software.
* Please read the release notes for more information on product support, features, and known compatibility issues.
* Users without US English operating systems can select their language and download the International driver here.

Note: 3-way SLI technology and Hybrid SLI technology are only supported on Windows Vista.

Driver Inf only supports:

CODE

GeForce GTX 280
GeForce GTX 260
nForce 780a SLI
nForce 750a SLI

DOWNLOAD

Vista x86

Vista x64

WinXP x86

WinXP x64

Also Official Linux WHQL drivers for the new cards:

Linux x64
Linux x86

ATI Catalyst 8.6 WHQL Display Driver

AMD’s award-winning ATI Catalyst graphics and HD video configuration software delivers unprecedented control of performance and visual quality with ATI Radeon™ graphics processors. Certified by Microsoft® Windows® Hardware Quality Labs (WHQL), ATI Catalyst drivers for Windows Vista® and Windows® XP operating systems deliver stable performance and push the limits of innovation with advanced user-oriented features.

Precision controls for power users. Tweaks for gamers and video enthusiasts. Simple wizard-assisted setup, easy multi-monitor configuration, and ultra reliable operation for working professionals. New user or seasoned expert, ATI Catalyst puts you in charge of The Ultimate Visual Experience™.

Industry-leading performance
o ATI Catalyst boosts graphics performance with every new monthly release, including enhancements for popular Direct3D and OpenGL game titles.

Innovative and exciting features
o ATI Catalyst includes the ATI Catalyst Control Center™, delivering innovative features and unprecedented control of performance and visual quality with ATI Radeon graphics.

Robust stability
o ATI Catalyst drivers for Windows Vista and Windows XP are Microsoft WHQL-certified, and include rigorously tested Linux drivers to deliver the industry’s most stable and reliable graphics performance.

This release note provides information on the latest posting of AMD's industry leading software suite, Catalyst™. This particular software suite updates both the AMD Display Driver, and the Catalyst™ Control Center. This unified driver has been further enhanced to provide the highest level of power, performance, and reliability. The AMD Catalyst™ software suite is the ultimate in performance and stability.

The Catalyst™ software suite 8.6 contains the following:
* Radeon™ display driver 8.501
* Multimedia Center™ 9.16 (Windows XP only)
* HydraVision™ for both Windows XP and Vista
* HydraVision™ Basic Edition (Windows XP only)
* Remote Wonder 3.04 (Windows XP only)
* WDM Driver Install Bundle
* Southbridge/IXP Driver
* Catalyst™ Control Center Version 8.6

Catalyst™ 8.6 introduces the following new features:
- OpenGL Adaptive Anti-Aliasing Custom Filters support
- OpenGL CrossFireX™ (QUAD) support - 3 or 4 GPUs in CrossFire™ mode
- Catalyst Install enhancement - No reboot required after Catalyst upgrade install

The latest version of the Catalyst™ software suite is designed to support the following Microsoft Windows platforms:
- Windows Vista (32 and 64 bit versions)
- Windows XP Professional
- Windows XP Home Edition
- Windows XP Media Center Edition (graphics driver support only)

The Catalyst™ Vista driver for both the 32bit and 64bit versions of the Microsoft Windows Vista operating system is supported on the following ATI Radeon™ products.

AMD Desktop Product Family Support for both Windows Vista and XP:
- ATI Radeon™ HD 3800 series
- ATI Radeon™ HD 3600 series
- ATI Radeon™ HD 3400 series
- ATI Radeon™ HD 2900 series
- ATI Radeon™ HD 2600 series
- ATI Radeon™ HD 2400 series
- ATI Radeon™ X1950 series
- ATI Radeon™ X1900 series
- ATI Radeon™ X1800 series
- ATI Radeon™ X1650 series
- ATI Radeon™ X1600 series
- ATI Radeon™ X1550 series
- ATI Radeon™ X1300 series
- ATI Radeon™ X1050 series
- ATI Radeon™ X850 series
- ATI Radeon™ X800 series
- ATI Radeon™ X700 series
- ATI Radeon™ X600 series
- ATI Radeon™ X550 series
- ATI Radeon™ X300 series
- ATI Radeon™ 9800 series
- ATI Radeon™ 9700 series
- ATI Radeon™ 9600 series
- ATI Radeon™ 9500 series

AMD Multimedia Family Product Support for both Windows Vista and XP:
- ATI All-in-Wonder™ X1900 Series
- ATI All-in-Wonder™ X1800 Series
- ATI All-in-Wonder™ 2006 Edition
- ATI All-in-Wonder™ X800 Series
- ATI Theater 650™
- ATI All-in-Wonder™ X600 Serie
- ATI Theater™ 550 PRO
- ATI All-in-Wonder™ 9800 Series
- ATI All-in-Wonder™ 9600 Series

Release Notes

Download your selected driver from ATI website

Nvidia Mobile GPUs

Thought I'd grab this nVidia info and put it here for those wanting to know a general idea of how each GPU figures in the scheme of things.
Any and all feedback encouraged

8800M
NVIDIA® GeForce® 8800M GTX and GeForce 8800M GTS GPUS - the world’s fastest notebook GPUs powering the ultimate DX10 notebook gaming platform so you can finally play games the way the developer meant them to be played.


8700M
NVIDIA®GeForce®8700M GT graphics processing unit (GPU) is the world's first Microsoft DirectX®10 graphics for high performance enthusiast gaming notebook PCs.


8600M
The NVIDIA® GeForce® 8600M graphics processing unit (GPU) allows you to play the hottest new games, enjoy home-theater quality video, and enjoy the ultimate Microsoft® Windows Vista™ experience.


8400M
The NVIDIA® GeForce® 8400M graphics processing unit (GPU) provides the ultimate Microsoft® Windows Vista™ experience in a truly mobile compact package. You can also play the hottest new games and enjoy home-theater quality video.


9650M GS
For the graphics-intensive features you need to enjoy home-theater quality video, use the latest productivity applications, play hot new PC games, and enjoy the ultimate Windows Vista™ experience, make sure your performance notebook is equipped with an NVIDIA® GeForce® 9650M GS graphics processing unit (GPU). This product is also enabled for CUDA applications and is NVIDIA PhysX-ready.


9600M GT
Enabling the new era of visual computing, the NVIDIA® GeForce® 9600M GT GPUs deliver the ultimate balance between mobility and performance for astounding PureVideo® HD technology playback capabilities combined with 3D features to enable visually-intense applications and games. With Hybrid SLI® technology features like HybridPower™ technology and GeForce Boost, you have optimal power management capabilities together with enhanced performance for one of the most ideal systems available today. This product is also enabled for CUDA applications and is NVIDIA PhysX-ready.


9600M GS
Enabling the new era of visual computing, the NVIDIA® GeForce® 9600M GS GPUs deliver the ultimate balance between mobility and performance for astounding PureVideo® HD technology playback capabilities combined with 3D features to enable visually-intense applications and games. With Hybrid SLI® technology features like HybridPower™ technology and GeForce Boost, you have optimal power management capabilities together with enhanced performance for one of the most ideal systems available today. This product is also enabled for CUDA applications and is NVIDIA PhysX-ready.


9500M GS
For the graphics-intensive features you need to enjoy home-theater quality video, use the latest productivity applications, play hot new PC games, and enjoy the ultimate Windows Vista™ experience, make sure your performance notebook is equipped with an NVIDIA® GeForce® 9500M GS graphics processing unit (GPU). This product is also enabled for CUDA applications and is NVIDIA PhysX-ready.


9500M G
Enabling the new era of visual computing, the NVIDIA® GeForce® 9500M G GPUs deliver the ultimate balance between mobility and performance for astounding PureVideo® HD technology playback capabilities combined with 3D features to enable visually-intense applications and games. With Hybrid SLI® technology features like HybridPower™ technology and GeForce Boost, you have optimal power management capabilities together with enhanced performance for one of the most ideal systems available today. This product is also enabled for CUDA applications and is NVIDIA PhysX-ready.


9300M GS
Providing powerful visual computing features to thin-and-light notebook PCs, the NVIDIA® GeForce® 9300M GS GPUs take mainstream systems to a new level of performance. With best-in-class HD video and audio combined with the ability to run visually-intensive applications, this graphics solution is ideal for your everyday computing needs to enjoy Windows Vista™ and todays popular games. This product is also enabled for CUDA applications and is NVIDIA PhysX-ready.


9300M G
For the graphics-intensive features you need to enjoy home-theater quality video, use the latest productivity applications, play hot new PC games, and enjoy the ultimate Windows Vista™ experience, make sure your performance notebook is equipped with an NVIDIA® GeForce® 9300M G graphics processing unit (GPU). This product is also enabled for CUDA applications and is NVIDIA PhysX-ready.


9200M GS
Providing powerful visual computing features to thin-and-light notebook PCs, the NVIDIA® GeForce® 9200M GS GPUs take mainstream systems to a new level of performance. With best-in-class HD video and audio combined with the ability to run visually-intensive applications, this graphics solution is ideal for your everyday computing needs to enjoy Windows Vista™ and todays popular games. This product is also enabled for CUDA applications and is NVIDIA PhysX-ready.


9100M G
The NVIDIA® GeForce® 9100M G motherboard GPU brings enhanced system performance to the value segment. Enjoy a Blu-ray movie with NVIDIA PureVideo® HD. When combined with a GeForce 9M series discrete GPU with Hybrid SLI® technology, system performance level can increase supporting visually-intense applications and game-play without breaking your wallet. This product is also enabled for CUDA applications and is NVIDIA PhysX-ready.

Canonical Showcases Ubuntu Netbook Remix at Computex

Canonical Now Delivers for OEMs a Rapid Route to Market For Netbooks Powered by an Intel Atom Processor

Computex, Taiwan June 3, 2008: Canonical, the commercial sponsor of Ubuntu, today announced that it will be demonstrating a reworked desktop image of Ubuntu built specifically for a new category of portable Internet-centric devices – netbooks. These affordable, power-efficient, small screen devices, based on the ground breaking low-power micro-architecture of the Intel® Atom™ processor, and Ubuntu allow consumers to enjoy email, instant messaging, Internet surfing and on-line access to photos, videos or music with an affordable, reliable device.

Ubuntu Netbook Remix is built to provide a superb user experience leveraging Ubuntu's reputation for delivering operating systems that 'just work' in the desktop environment. The remix is based on the standard Ubuntu Desktop Edition but with a launcher that allows users to get on-line more quickly and have faster access to their favourite applications. Ubuntu Netbook Remix will enable device manufacturers to get to market rapidly with a compelling software solution on netbooks, as they have a standard user interface (UI) that is built on a widely used operating system underpinned by a globally recognised brand. Canonical is also working with ISVs to ensure that popular desktop applications are certified on Ubuntu, and will run on the Ubuntu Netbook Remix.

Canonical is already working with a number of Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to deliver the software into the market on devices later in 2008. Demonstration versions will be available at Computex.

Ubuntu Netbook Remix leverages Moblin technologies optimized for the Intel Atom processor. Intel and Canonical are working to create a next generation computing experience across a new category of affordable Internet-centric, portable devices; including Mobile Internet Devices (MIDs), netbooks, nettops and embedded devices based on Intel Atom processor technology. Canonical is a founding contributor to Moblin and will continue to work with Intel to ensure the best open source applications become available to users and OEMs through Moblin.

"Our goal is to deliver a superb user experience while making it simple and cost-effective for device manufacturers to be able to bring their devices to the consumer marketplace," explained Mark Shuttleworth, founder of Ubuntu. "Ubuntu has in a very short period transformed the perception of the Linux desktop experience. Many more people will experience Linux for the first time through these devices so working with Canonical, using our UI and leveraging software from the Moblin project is the best way to ensure the netbook experience is a success."

"At Intel, we see netbooks as an opportunity to expand basic Internet usage throughout the world through simple and affordable devices for consumers," said Doug Fisher, vice president, Software and Solutions Group for Intel. "The combination of Ubuntu Netbook Remix with Moblin technologies optimized for the Intel Atom processor will deliver a good Internet and media experience on Intel-based netbooks.”

Availability: OEMs looking to ship Ubuntu Netbook Remix should contact netbooks@canonical.com. More information on the product can be found here: www.canonical.com/netbooks

About Canonical Ltd

Canonical Ltd, the commercial sponsor of Ubuntu, is a global organisation headquartered in Europe, committed to the development, distribution and support of open source software products and communities. World-class 24x7 commercial support for Ubuntu is available through Canonical's global support team and partners. Since its launch in October 2004, Ubuntu has become one of the most highly regarded Linux distributions with millions of users around the world.

Ubuntu will always be free to download, free to use and free to distribute to others. With these goals in mind, Ubuntu aims to be the most widely used Linux system, and is the centre of a global open source software ecosystem. For more information visit www.canonical.com or www.ubuntu.com.