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    Linux distro compatibility for Sony Vaio S (15)

    Discussion in 'VAIO / Sony' started by ~Mr Burns, Oct 16, 2013.

  1. ~Mr Burns

    ~Mr Burns Notebook Enthusiast

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    Hello,

    I want to install a linux distro on this machine; I tried ubuntu but the temps are 10-15C higher than on windows with the fan being constantly on (even though barely audible) and I had to give up on it as I found no solution to the problem. Has anyone installed a linux distro that works without problems on the Sony Vaio S 15? I have the hybrid graphics version.

    Thanks,
    Mr B.
     
    ~Mr Burns, Oct 16, 2013
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  2. next4nextel

    next4nextel Notebook Consultant

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    I have a hybrid graphics also on VPCCB15FA and tried Linux Mint 15 which was ok, all my hardware worked but battery life was compromised. Try it out!
     
    next4nextel, Oct 20, 2013
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  3. jahaan

    jahaan Notebook Enthusiast

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    I use fedora 19 here without many problems... I have used mint 15 before (which is based on ubuntu so should give similar results). You may run into problems with the UEFI bootloader, but normally a tool called 'boot-repair' can fix it.

    You have to install a thing called 'bumblebee', which gives optimus support in linux. It is not part of the standard install, but if you google "bumblebee ubuntu" you find install instructions.

    When you don't have bumblebee, both graphics adaptors will be switched on and it will waste power, hence the temps will rise...

    Oh, and nice to know: you can also change the battery care and thermal control settings (among others) in linux. There is a folder /sys/devices/platform/sony-laptop/ which contains 'files', and by editing or reading these you can pass settings. E.g. there is a file battery_care_limiter, where you can put in '0', '50' or '80' to change the limit.

    Have fun using linux!
     
    jahaan, Oct 21, 2013
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