CrunchEee

CrunchEee is an open source distribution of Linux optimized for the ASUS Eee PC netbook computer. It is derived from the CrunchBang Linux operating system, which in turn is a modified version of the Ubuntu distro. It uses the Openbox window manager as its default and only desktop environment.

It’s distributed as a 32-bit Live CD

The CrunchEee project is distributed as a Live CD ISO image that contains software packages optimized only for the 32-bit (i386) architecture. The ISO has only 500 MB in size, which means that it will fit perfectly on a CD disc or a USB thumb drive of 512MB or higher capacity.

Text-mode boot prompt with standard options

The user can start the live system by pressing the Enter key at the text-mode boot prompt. In addition, it is possible to start the live system in safe graphics mode by using the “xforcevesa” option, verify the integrity of the bootable medium (only if using a CD disc) using the “check” option, run a memory test using the “memtest” option, as well as to boot an existing OS from the local drive using the “hd” option.

Openbox is in charge of the graphical session

As mentioned, the distro comes with the minimalist Openbox window manager, which is in charge of the graphical session, providing users with a simple, clean and extremely fast desktop environment. It features a transparent panel that hosts the task manager, desktop switcher and system tray area.

Comes with a vast amount of open source software projects

CrunchEee comes with a vast amount of open source software projects, among which we can mention Mozilla Firefox, Transmission, Claws Mail, gFTP, Liferea, gPodder, Skype, XChat, Pidgin and Gwibber.

A good operating system for netbook computers

Despite all things, CrunchEee is a good operating system for netbook computers, not only for ASUS Eee PC, as well as any other machine with a small screen.