[Freegis-list] Linux and GIS questions

[Martin Wegmann]

Hello, 

On Saturday 19 June 2004 22:19, Andreas Antoniou wrote:
> I would like your suggestions on the following questions:
>
> What do I need to start using Linux?

you either need a fast internet connection to download a Linux distribution or 
a few bugs to buy the CD + Handbooks in your book- or computerstore. 
In my opinion debian is the best choice but if you are a Linux novice you are 
better up to use Suse or Redhat or Mandrake - the installation is pretty 
straight forward and using kde or gnome is quite intuitive. 

> Where I can find information on using Linux under command line and
> graphics?

there are several books and online infos available on both, command line and 
graphical user interface. but as said before, for the user interface you 
usually don't need a tutorial but some interest to explorer the new desktop. 

> What is the effort needed for operating GRASS or any other GIS under Linux?

if you try QGIS, Thuban or Jump the effort is relatively small, but to 
conqueror GRASS requires some effort - the same as learning ArcInfo or ERDAS. 
You will find very good tutorials on the grass pages, which will make the 
learning curve capable. 

enjoy Linux and GRASS! cheers Martin