Calling All Linux Gurus To Do The Impossible!
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If you are into Linux application programing (GTK tool kit type stuff), then we need to talk. As I prep to launch a second project of my own, I have decided the best way to launch my soon-to-be Linux project would be to solve the multiple monitor problem with Ubuntu once and for all. The beauty of Linux is that I can do this sort of thing without fear of any angry CEOs coming after me with some over-hyped lawsuit.
This is where you come in. I am looking for Linux developers who are interested in helping me to make this happen. The project would be broken into two parts: part one is improved driver installation and part two is a GUI tool for editing your xorg for mulitple monitor support.
On the off chance no one is interested in helping me to resolve the ever-growing dual monitor/driver installation issue, fine. I will take this into my care on my own. It will be a harder road for sure, but I do have some alternative means for making it happen if need be.
As for my existing solution using bash scripts and help files, I have finally decided to host the compressed folders myself as no one has opted to step up to the plate in offering a hosting mirror. I do run one dedicated server for my still under development recipe site. Considering that I will be offering virtual toggle switches for single/dual monitor switching, xorg back-up and so on, the hits are going to be considerable I suspect. I will be self-sponsoring the release of the scripts so we can get onto the good stuff - GUI driver installations and dual monitor configuration within Ubuntu. We know it can be done as Fedora and SuSE already made this a reality. And with this in mind, I am ready to do whatever it takes to bring this to Ubuntu [and spin off distros] as well.
Once again, if you are into Linux application development, want to really make a difference, email me - let’s make this happen. Otherwise, you will be missing out on something fantastic. Oh, assuming I can locate a programmer, I plan on using something like Fundable to compensate the programmer for their time.
[tags]Ubuntu,linux,help,monitors,video cards,drivers[/tags]

5 Comments
Steven
January 30th, 2007
at 4:06am
Matt,
Being a regular reader, and having had previous conversations with you concerning Linux, I though I would make you aware of this. I am sure as a programmer you are seeking the challenge more then anything when it comes to making a dual monitor driver for Ubuntu. However, have you played with LinuxMint yet? It is an Ubuntu clone that has been customized and refined. For instance, I have never been able to get UBUNTU 5.0; 6.06 or 6.10 to run on my Compaq computer because of ACPI issues, however Linux Mint Bea Edition, which is based on Ubuntu Edgy 6.06, runs like a champ. And although I don’t have two monitors, it does have a built in driver for that purpose. Give it a try at http://www.linuxmint.com
Steve
Matt Hartley
January 30th, 2007
at 5:40am
Hi Steven,
Not actually a programmer, just a Linux fan. It’s funny that you should mention Linux Mint as I have been linking to them on my own website in addition to writing about that over at OSWeekly:
Greg
February 7th, 2007
at 1:30pm
Hi Matt,
I am a Java programmer and might be able to help out in some way. I just installed ubuntu edgy and got the dual head going. I am fairly familiar with the xorg.conf file and might be able to help out.
Let me know if you need any help.
Greg
Clif
February 17th, 2007
at 11:24pm
is it possible to adapt what is pre-existing in LinuxMint, FC, or Suse?
You should be able to get help from Ubuntu directly, no?
This is something loooong overdue.
best of success,
Clif
Matt Hartley
February 18th, 2007
at 6:10pm
Clif:
Hi Clif, if you could clarify what you mean by “adapt”, I might be able to answer that a little better. In the meantime, let me take a stab at what I think you are referring to?
Both Fedora and SuSE are using one way of doing things and Linux Mint, Ubuntu among others are using something completely different. There are a number of considerations: software package types; RPM or DEB, GNOME or KDE, and so on. The variety offered among distros have served to be both a blessing and a curse in the Linux world. It’s a double edged sword really. ;)