Install Slackware 13.1 on Compaq Presario CQ42-270TU Notebook

I just bought a new notebook, a brand new Compaq Presario CQ42-270TU, without any operating system installed, just a default FreeDOS. It is definitely a notebook with Intel® Core™ i5-450M Processor (2.40 GHz, Cache 3 MB) , 2 GB DDR3 SODIMM PC-10600, and Intel GMA 4500M manufactured by HP in around July and August 2010.

As usual I first installed a Windows OS, Windows 7 Ultimate Edition. Of course the Windows 7 run properly meaning that all the hardwares have its own driver.

As a Slackware fanboy, it is a must to install Slackware in my notebook dual-booted with Windows 7.
In my mind I just wonder whether the video, Wifi or sound card will be detected and able to run properly in Slackware or not.
I decided to install Slackware 13.1. I think if the Slackware does not install the drivers automatically, I can look for them later.

The installation process run without any problems. I choose to use XFCE4 as the window manager because I would rather to use XFCE than KDE because XFCE is fast, lightweight and robust XWindow Manager.

After the installation completed and restarted, I surprised that all the hardwares work properly. The monitor display can have its maximum resolution 1366×768 pixel. The sound and ethernet card work nicely.
But an important thing that does not work is Realtek RTL8191SE Wifi adapter. It is not detected by default. I need to download and install the driver manually. Later I will write a tutorial how to install RTL8191SE Wifi driver on Slackware 13.1.

Here are some screenshot of Slackware 13.1 running on Compaq Presario CQ42-270TU Notebook using XFCE4.

Google Chrome 7.0 in Slackware 13.1 using XFCE4
Sound and Screen Resolution in Slackware 13.1
Adobe Reader 9.4 in Slackware 13.1
OpenOffice 3.2.1 in Slackware 13.1

Detail Specification of Compaq Presario CQ42-270TU

Platform Notebook PC
Processor Type Intel Core i5 Processor
Processor Onboard Intel® Core™ i5-450M Processor (2.40 GHz, Cache 3 MB)
Chipset Intel HM55
Standard Memory 2 GB DDR3 SODIMM PC-10600
Max. Memory 8 GB (2 DIMMs)
Video Type Intel® Graphics Media Accelerator 4500M 128 MB (shared)
Display Size 14″ WXGA LED
Display Max. Resolution 1366 x 768
Display Technology BrightView LED
Audio Type Integrated
Speakers Type Integrated
Floppy Drive Optional
Hard Drive Type 320 GB Serial ATA 7200 RPM
Optical Drive Type DVD±RW
Modem Optional
Networking Integrated
Network Speed 10 / 100 Mbps
Wireless Network Type Integrated
Wireless Network Protocol IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.11n
Wireless Bluetooth Integrated
Keyboard Type Ergonomics 101 keys
Input Device Type Touch Pad
Slot Provided Optional
Card Reader Provided SD, MMC, Memory Stick / Stick PRO, xD-Picture Card
Interface Provided 3x USB 2.0, VGA, HDMI, LAN, Audio
O/S Provided Pre-sales Request Available
Battery Type Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery

  • 6cell 

Power Supply External AC Adapter
Dimension (WHD) 342 x 36.5 x 228 mm
Weight 2.2 kg
Standard Warranty 1-year Limited Warranty by Authorized Distributor
Bundled Peripherals Optional