iPods and Linux

[urbestfreind]

Alright, I've been using my 30GB 5th Generation iPod as an external hard drive (and a backup of some important laptop files) for about a month now. Note that the iPod has a broken screen, so I can't exactly use it for videos or finding songs anymore. Since school has started, and I take a game design class at the vo-tech center, I've been using it more and more in class to shuttle graphics, unfinished games, etc, back and forth between schools.

 

 

 

I was wondering if there was any way to install programs on my iPod, and how would i go about doing it? Like, would they have to be Mac compatible? Specifically tailored for iPod? I looked online a bit, but I couldn't really find anything that said what the programs have to be compatable with (since some software is mac-only, or windows-only). I'm rather interested in putting on Visual Basic, a Java compiler, and Notepad++ or HTML-Kit. Maybe a few other programs (Possibly Firefox with all my add-ons on it, for when I have to do research).

 

 

 

Also, can I install Linux on the iPod, so when I plug it in at school, I can use Linux itself, or Linux programs at school? I know there is an iPodLinux, but it does not support the 5G model (and I'm not risking the install).

 

 

 

I do have a few more questions about Linux too. I've read so much about it in my magazines (PC World and PC Magazine mostly), and online, I figured I should give it a try. I have an old desktop that's been infected with viruses a few times (one which I'm not entirely sure i've cleaned out) on one HD, and on the other, a copy of windows that doesn't boot due to a failed attempt at installing windows updates.

 

 

 

First, I want to get all my files off the desktop, so what would I need to do that? Like, what would be the easiest distro to boot off of so I can copy over my files (probably to the aforementioned iPod) to this computer? I've never used Linux before, so something that's a bit simple would be nice...Although I am a programmer (well, VB and soon Java), so I'm not exactly afraid of the Command Prompt and coding.

 

 

 

Also, I've been debating on turning the computer (after I shrink the windows partition and get all the unneeded programs off of it, to save disk space, since I can't wipe it, only have an OEM copy of windows) into either a NAS device (since my laptop only has 60gb of storage (with about 12 free atm), and I'll probably have 50 to play with after I get done with the desktop), or maybe a web server..I would like a bit more information on what I would need to do both (sticking with Linux here again, for both cases). Is it possible to do both? Have a small partition for my website, and keep the rest for storage?

 

 

 

If you have any questions, feel free to ask. I'll answer them after sleep/school (wanted to post this before bed to hopefully get some answers, 15.5 hours should be enough time, right?). And I'm sorry for any typos involving the letter "r", as my r key is broken (or it takes multiple attempts and/or a really hard hit to get the character).

[stevepole]

Well when you set up your ipod it formats the harddrive to your OS. If you install programs to the ipod make sure they are standalone.

[Makoto_the_Phoenix]

Programs on the iPod? Sure, why not? You just have to know where to look. Java? Ooh, I don't think so. It has to be ported to that specific architecture first (and no, it hasn't been done yet -- probably won't be until Java 7 has had some time to mature). I'm sure you can install Linux on there, in fact, that link I provided earlier provides further information about installing *nix on the iPod.

 

 

 

As for the Linux installation/tinkering, let's get down to work.

 

 

 

To begin with, to pull files off of your old machine, you'll need an intermediate storage device (or a CD burner). If you absolutely need it, then store it on the disc or CD.

 

 

 

Next, download a Linux distribution that you think suits you best. Most people seem to prefer Ubuntu, as do I, but there are other types out there. I'd say that Ubuntu Linux is as good a place as any to begin learning about Linux.

 

 

 

I'm certain that you can use a Linux machine as a NAS, you just have to have the permissions set on it right. It'd also involve a copy of Ubuntu Server; server because of performance. I'm certain you can flip through the forums or Google and find tutorials about that, as well as partitioning. :P

 

 

 

Feel free to PM me, if I find a free moment between now and finishing up my Java projects for college.

[urbestfreind]

Programs on the iPod? Sure, why not? You just have to know where to look. Java? Ooh, I don't think so. It has to be ported to that specific architecture first (and no, it hasn't been done yet -- probably won't be until Java 7 has had some time to mature). I'm sure you can install Linux on there, in fact, that link I provided earlier provides further information about installing *nix on the iPod.

 

 

 

Alright, so no Java (damn), but I'm not sure about this whole linux thing. First, the iPodLinux does not support my 5G ipod, so I don't think I want to risk installing it, as my iPod also serves as a place for me to backup files, and an external hard drive.

 

 

 

Second, I thought that the ipodlinux distro let you use linux and some linux apps on your ipod...well, this isn't possible with me, since i can't see my screen (the crack is huge, and warranty expired a long time ago, and I'm not spending 200 bucks on the repair, or 80 bucks for the kit to do a self-repair). I suppose what I should have said is I want to use the iPod as more of a portable OS or something, so I could just plug it in, have Ubuntu and some apps ready, etc, so I could use Linux at school (where installing Linux on the computers would be pretty much impossible)....I don't know how to explain it, maybe someone knows what I'm talking about...

 

 

 

Next, download a Linux distribution that you think suits you best. Most people seem to prefer Ubuntu, as do I, but there are other types out there. I'd say that Ubuntu Linux is as good a place as any to begin learning about Linux.

 

Alright, I downloaded a version of Ubuntu on my iPod (since I got it at school and didnt have a disc handy). How do I get it on there? Change the boot order to boot from the iPod, or do I absolutely need to find some software to burn the .iso on a disc, and boot from that?

 

 

 

I'm certain that you can use a Linux machine as a NAS, you just have to have the permissions set on it right. It'd also involve a copy of Ubuntu Server; server because of performance. I'm certain you can flip through the forums or Google and find tutorials about that, as well as partitioning. :P

 

 

 

Alright, I'll grab a copy after I get done with cleaning out the system. But can I also use it to host web pages? Like, I'm just practicing web design, but I'd like to host a few pages so I can show off my handiwork, and let my friends access the pages. Probably put some info on my game projects, some bowling records, info on my WoW and RS characters, etc. Simple stuff. Maybe make a seperate site for employers containing a minor version of a resume.

 

 

 

I dont know if you can help me with the above, may not even be possible (like, how would I do the domain registation and everything)...Just a few thoughts that popped into my head during the day..

 

 

 

Feel free to PM me, if I find a free moment between now and finishing up my Java projects for college.

Java projects? Do share. I'm reading a Beginner's Java book right now. Would love to see some higher-level, more advanced applications... Speaking of Java, any idea on what I could use to do more visual things? Like, I'm familiar with Visual Basic .NET and stuff like that, but I would love to add some graphics and things to it, instead of just something that spits out the results of an equation, or like batch files where you can maybe press a key to open a web page (after all, if I wanted to do batch files, i would have never gotten the book)..

 

 

 

Like, I had an old app I made in VB that I would put in a few things, like my 3 games, previous average or series, number of games bowled and what average I wanted, and would spit out the current number of games, new average, and what games/series I would need for my wanted average...Any idea how to do this? It was much easier in VB because I could see all the controls and debugging was really easy...Not sure if there's a better thing for writing and compiling code than what you get from Sun..

[Makoto_the_Phoenix]

Alright, so no Java (damn), but I'm not sure about this whole linux thing. First, the iPodLinux does not support my 5G ipod, so I don't think I want to risk installing it, as my iPod also serves as a place for me to backup files, and an external hard drive.

 

 

 

Second, I thought that the ipodlinux distro let you use linux and some linux apps on your ipod...well, this isn't possible with me, since i can't see my screen (the crack is huge, and warranty expired a long time ago, and I'm not spending 200 bucks on the repair, or 80 bucks for the kit to do a self-repair). I suppose what I should have said is I want to use the iPod as more of a portable OS or something, so I could just plug it in, have Ubuntu and some apps ready, etc, so I could use Linux at school (where installing Linux on the computers would be pretty much impossible)....I don't know how to explain it, maybe someone knows what I'm talking about...

 

 

 

What you mean is "Boot from USB". I'm not too sure if the iPod can do that (never owned one before). But, there are ways that you can get a distro on a USB, you just have to look for the instructions.

 

 

 

Alas, I have a 1GB flash disc set away for that purpose, guess I haven't had the time to put it all together...

 

 

 

Alright, I downloaded a version of Ubuntu on my iPod (since I got it at school and didnt have a disc handy). How do I get it on there? Change the boot order to boot from the iPod, or do I absolutely need to find some software to burn the .iso on a disc, and boot from that?

 

 

 

If your iPod can be booted from the USB drive, then you've got to do a few more extra steps to get it to boot like a disc. I'd just advise burning the CD; you can find that tutorial for Windows right here.

 

 

 

Alright, I'll grab a copy after I get done with cleaning out the system. But can I also use it to host web pages? Like, I'm just practicing web design, but I'd like to host a few pages so I can show off my handiwork, and let my friends access the pages. Probably put some info on my game projects, some bowling records, info on my WoW and RS characters, etc. Simple stuff. Maybe make a seperate site for employers containing a minor version of a resume.

 

 

 

I dont know if you can help me with the above, may not even be possible (like, how would I do the domain registation and everything)...Just a few thoughts that popped into my head during the day..

 

 

 

Hosting a web page out to the world really depends on your ISP. Many of them get really mad at you for setting up a web server on just a home user package, and depending on who's running what, that may be grounds for termination of your contract. Best bet is to call them and ask a LOT of questions before going any further. Barring any tensions between you and them, however, I see no problem in you using it as a server -- you just have to set the server up as a LAMP (Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP/Python/Perl) server.

 

[Note]

 

 

 

Java projects? Do share. I'm reading a Beginner's Java book right now. Would love to see some higher-level, more advanced applications... Speaking of Java, any idea on what I could use to do more visual things? Like, I'm familiar with Visual Basic .NET and stuff like that, but I would love to add some graphics and things to it, instead of just something that spits out the results of an equation, or like batch files where you can maybe press a key to open a web page (after all, if I wanted to do batch files, i would have never gotten the book)..

 

 

 

Like, I had an old app I made in VB that I would put in a few things, like my 3 games, previous average or series, number of games bowled and what average I wanted, and would spit out the current number of games, new average, and what games/series I would need for my wanted average...Any idea how to do this? It was much easier in VB because I could see all the controls and debugging was really easy...Not sure if there's a better thing for writing and compiling code than what you get from Sun..

 

 

 

I don't mind showing you the code that I've written, under the sole condition that you don't use it anywhere else. These applications are at the 2000 level in my college (Sophomore level); I've seen actual games come out of the 4000 level (and I even played one). Won't be there for a few years, though. :(

 

 

 

More visual things with Java? Not really sure what you mean. "More visual" can mean anything from JOptionPane user interaction to JOGL 3D polygons. But, for your solution, there's a simple way to do this.

 

 

 

Assume that ALL variables are initialized and all necessary classes are imported.

 

 

 

JOptionPane.showMessageDialog(null, "Number of games bowled " + gamesBowled + "\n" +

 

"Average " + average + "\nNeeded for a better series " + betterSeriesAlgorithm);

 

 

 

You'd have to fill in the blanks, but the way to get visual output on screen is through JOptionPane. Import it through javax.swing.JOptionPane.

 

 

 

There are some tutorials for Java out there, but I haven't had the time to go through them to see if they're worth the electricity to look at 'em. Perhaps when I'm finished with my next great project (Fibonacci & Ackerman), I'll be able to take a glance at it and send it your way.

[sloter]

 

Hosting a web page out to the world really depends on your ISP. Many of them get really mad at you for setting up a web server on just a home user package, and depending on who's running what, that may be grounds for termination of your contract. Best bet is to call them and ask a LOT of questions before going any further. Barring any tensions between you and them, however, I see no problem in you using it as a server -- you just have to set the server up as a LAMP (Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP/Python/Perl) server.

 

[Note]

 

 

I acually use to have a unix based server set up till i moved and got a new ISP(Hughes net which is satellite and has no bandwidth like cable did). Any how my old ISP blocked port 80 incoming so what you do is change the listening port on apache. So lets say i hosted a site off my IP with no domain and with the port number of 2578. The url would be http://my.ip.adress:2578.

[urbestfreind]

Alright, thank you Makoto_the_Phoenix for the helpful answers.

 

 

 

I'll just go ahead and make the CD for my own use. I'll work on getting a flash drive dedicated to Linux at another time (I hear Puppy Linux is made to be used on a flash drive, so I got a distro of that. May give it a try this weekend).

 

 

 

Now this server thing has gotten me all confused. I'll make sure to call Comcast (my ISP) and see what they say about it. I don't think we've done anything to make them mad at us (for lack of a better phrase), but we did just cancel having the set-top box (which has all the movies and good channels), but that's about it.. Don't want to terminate the contract, as if my father and I didn't have enough problems with each other...

 

 

 

I don't get what I need to set up or how to do it though. Like, I don't know what Apache is, and I've never worked withH PHP or MySQL (though I want to learn MySQL...I understand it's like MS Access?). Also never used Python or Perl...Probably should get on that...Does not knowing any of these matter a lot? Should I go out and buy a few books on the different ones (or ask my tech teacher to borrow his, since he also teaches Web Design)?

 

 

 

sloter, what do you mean change the listening port? That mean like the place where the requests for access to the page would come in?

 

 

 

Yeah, I just got in to web design, and programming seriously [meaning for a career], so please don't just throw things at me without a little explanation, or maybe some linkage. Like, I just went under Wikipedia to look up Apache, and it seems like that would remove the point for Ubuntu Server? Maybe someone could help me over PM or a chat program (I think I still have an active AIM and MSN Messenger account)? Or even a decent web site would help.

[sloter]

Alright, thank you Makoto_the_Phoenix for the helpful answers.

 

 

 

I'll just go ahead and make the CD for my own use. I'll work on getting a flash drive dedicated to Linux at another time (I hear Puppy Linux is made to be used on a flash drive, so I got a distro of that. May give it a try this weekend).

 

 

 

Now this server thing has gotten me all confused. I'll make sure to call Comcast (my ISP) and see what they say about it. I don't think we've done anything to make them mad at us (for lack of a better phrase), but we did just cancel having the set-top box (which has all the movies and good channels), but that's about it.. Don't want to terminate the contract, as if my father and I didn't have enough problems with each other...

 

 

 

I don't get what I need to set up or how to do it though. Like, I don't know what Apache is, and I've never worked withH PHP or MySQL (though I want to learn MySQL...I understand it's like MS Access?). Also never used Python or Perl...Probably should get on that...Does not knowing any of these matter a lot? Should I go out and buy a few books on the different ones (or ask my tech teacher to borrow his, since he also teaches Web Design)?

 

 

 

sloter, what do you mean change the listening port? That mean like the place where the requests for access to the page would come in?

 

 

 

Yeah, I just got in to web design, and programming seriously [meaning for a career], so please don't just throw things at me without a little explanation, or maybe some linkage. Like, I just went under Wikipedia to look up Apache, and it seems like that would remove the point for Ubuntu Server? Maybe someone could help me over PM or a chat program (I think I still have an active AIM and MSN Messenger account)? Or even a decent web site would help.

 

 

 

You just change the listening port which is 80 for most web sites. Just change the port as comcast blocks 80 incoming (fist hand experience). I wouldn't call them all they will tell you to do is get business class internet.

[Makoto_the_Phoenix]

You just change the listening port which is 80 for most web sites. Just change the port as comcast blocks 80 incoming (fist hand experience). I wouldn't call them all they will tell you to do is get business class internet.

 

 

 

It's far better to get their clear stance on the matter than run the risk of having your entire service disconnected. ISPs can get really cheesed off if they find out you're doing something not agreed upon in the service contract.

 

 

 

I don't get what I need to set up or how to do it though. Like, I don't know what Apache is, and I've never worked withH PHP or MySQL (though I want to learn MySQL...I understand it's like MS Access?). Also never used Python or Perl...Probably should get on that...Does not knowing any of these matter a lot? Should I go out and buy a few books on the different ones (or ask my tech teacher to borrow his, since he also teaches Web Design)?

 

 

 

To begin frankly, I've only touched MS Access briefly, and while there are similarities, they're not really the same. Not knowing any of the programming languages I rattled off of doesn't mean much unless you wish to learn them (even then, you're learning them -- no one expects you to be a guru overnight). When you set up a LAMP server in Linux, it's pretty straight-forward -- there's even an option for it on the install (server only). If you can't find that, or you use a desktop version, there are some tutorials out there that can aid you a bit more.

 

 

 

If you want to borrow the books, that's fine, but I'd wait for a little while until you're well-versed in the semantics of the languages before you go out to buy a programming book. There's nothing worse than buying a book with oodles of information, and you have nowhere near the capacity to understand it. (This happened to me when I was younger; I acquired a PHP booklet, and because I didn't understand any of the syntax/semantics, I shelved it, not knowing I had it until I moved five years later.)

 

 

 

By the by, I wouldn't have recommended that you set up your server up to be 100% visible to the world, anyway. If you go through with your plan to use it as a NAS, then someone has the potential to access it and delete your critical data.