IT Professionals

Calling All Linux Gurus To Do The Impossible!

Posted by on Jan 26, 2007 | 12 Comments

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]

  • Steven

    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

  • http://www.matthartley.com Matt Hartley

    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

    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

    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

  • http://www.matthartley.com Matt Hartley

    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. ;)

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