this post was submitted on 28 Aug 2024
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(Solved) I would like a small laptop to use to log medical data (Weight, Blood Pressure, etc) as I gather it. I need it to be small like 10'. it can be low power because I will probably use it only CLI, no GUI, but I need it to be inexpensive. ARM-based is ok, as long as I can SSH into my desktop machine.

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[–] Kualk@lemm.ee 6 points 2 months ago* (last edited 2 months ago) (3 children)

I own old Chromebook.

Chromebook software updates are not forever.

It is my understanding that some Chromebooks might be locked in such a way that installation of Linux might NOT be an option or the might be a high chance of bricking the device.

At least that was the case with my Chromebook.

So, once OS updates are unavailable, the machine might become a weak link from security standpoint or stop running some software.

Chromebook is still a great option, but be careful with very old ones.

[–] data1701d@startrek.website 8 points 2 months ago

It's always worth checking if MrChromebox supports your specific Chromebook. I got Debian running on an old Chromebook a few months back for fun, but I had to compile a custom kernel to get audio working because AMD Stoney Ridge is weird.

[–] ouRKaoS@lemmy.today 1 points 2 months ago (1 children)

I got a $50 EOL Chromebook that I loaded CinnaMint (it's right there... Why say "Mint Cinnamon "...) on.

I use it as my sketchy torrent getting machine, Because if something goes wrong, oh well.

[–] gaylord_fartmaster@lemmy.world 2 points 2 months ago

What is sketchy about downloading a torrent that it could save you from? Wouldn't it be executing whatever you downloaded on another machine that would be the risky part?

[–] jws_shadotak@sh.itjust.works 1 points 2 months ago

So, once OS updates are unavailable, the machine might become a weak link from security standpoint or stop running some software.

That's why I specified:

Double check before buying that it can be wiped and you can put Linux on it.