Slamd64

Slamd64 is an open source distribution of Linux based on the Slackware operating system and optimized for 64-bit computers. Despite the name containing AMD64, Slamd64 should work well on both EM64T and K8 (AMD64) processors. It is built around the KDE graphical desktop environment.

It’s distributed as a 64-bit installable-only ISO image

The Slamd64 operating system can be downloaded from Softoware as an installable-only ISO image that fits on a single-layer DVD disc, but it can also be deployed on a USB flash drive of 4GB or higher capacity.

Minimal boot prompt

Being based on Slackware Linux, the distribution boasts a minimal boot prompt where you can just press the Enter key to start the installer or pass extra parameters to the kernel. Press the F2 key to view a list of available kernels.

Text-mode installer

At the shell prompt, log into the live system with the “root” password (without quotes). You will be informed that you must manually partition your disk drive before the installation, using either the cfdisk or fdisk command-line tools.

How to install Slamd64

The installer will require you to choose a keyboard layout, set up your SWAP partition and the target partition(s), select the source media (CD or USB), select and install software packages, configure the network, choose a timezone and configure the system clock, set up users and passwords, as well as to install a bootloader.

Traditional KDE desktop environment

As mentioned, the distribution is built around the KDE desktop environment, which offers a traditional interface comprised of a single panel located on the bottom edge of the screen. The panel includes various useful applets, such as a main menu, application launcher, task manager, system tray area and desktop switcher. It includes a vast amount of KDE-specific apps.

What is new in this release:

• Linux kernel 2.6.27.7
• GCC 4.2.4
• Apache HTTPD 2.2.10, with SSL support and PHP 5.2.8
• Updated development tools
• KDE 3.5.10
• XFCE 4.4.3
• Mozilla Firefox 3.0.5
• Mozilla Thunderbird 2.0.0.19
• Sun Java (JRE and JDK) 6u11