ESCLinux

ESCLinux is an open-source and completely free distribution of Linux based off of Ubuntu, the world’s most popular free operating system, and built around the Xfce graphical desktop environment.

Distributed as a dual-arch Live DVD

The distribution is available for download as a dual-arch Live DVD ISO image that supports both 32-bit (i386) and 64-bit (x86_64) instruction set architectures.

The live system can be booted in safe graphics mode

The bootloader of the Live CD ISO image is quite standard for an Ubuntu-based distribution. From here, the user can start the live system with default boot options or in safe graphics mode, start the installation directly, perform a RAM test, as well as to boot an existing operating system from the local drive.

Include a full featured desktop environment

While the default graphical desktop environment of ESCLinux is Xfce, the minimal Openbox window manager is also included as a backup environment, in case Xfce crashes.

The Xfce interface uses a single-panel layout. The panel is located on the bottom edge of the screen, allowing the user to interact with opened applications and launch programs. It is fully customizable.

The OS features a plethora of open source applications

You can choose from a vast selection of applications to use, including the abc2midi for converting ABC files to MIDI, abcm2ps for converting ABC files to PostScript, gv PostScript and PDF document viewer, Tkabc ABC editor, Timidity MIDI player, xjed ASCII editor with tools for ABC, and Skink ABC viewer and editor.

In addition, the Xpdf PDF document viewer, Geany integrated development environment, Calibre ebook library management software, Leafpad and Mousepad text editors, Meld file diff and merge utility are also included.

Bottom line

All in all, ESCLinux is a lightweight and classic distribution of Linux suitable for slow computers, transforming them into reliable and modern workstations.