[Skybird]

I was not sure whether it would allow non gaming stuff as well. I asked ChatGPT, several questions, I give just the answers:


SteamOS 3.0, the latest version of the operating system based on Linux, allows you to install and use applications like Firefox and email clients like Thunderbird.
Although SteamOS was originally developed for use with Steam and Steam-like applications on the Steam Deck console, it is based on a version of Debian Linux, which means that you can install additional programs through the appropriate user interface (like the Desktop Mode).
For Firefox or Thunderbird, you would either install them via SteamOS software repositories or manually by using .deb packages, similar to other Linux distributions.
In Desktop Mode, you can essentially install any Linux-compatible application. So, if you're using SteamOS as your main operating system on a PC, you can easily set up and use these programs.

Yes, you can also install OpenOffice on SteamOS. Since SteamOS is based on Debian Linux, you can install OpenOffice (or its successor, Apache OpenOffice) just like you would on any other Debian-based system.
You can either:

1. Install it via a package manager: Use the terminal in Desktop Mode to install OpenOffice using the APT package manager (if available in the repositories). You might need to add a repository or download the .deb package manually.
2. Download and install the .deb package: You can visit the Apache OpenOffice website, download the .deb package, and install it manually by double-clicking the downloaded file or using terminal commands.

Either way, you should be able to use OpenOffice for word processing, spreadsheets, and other office tasks while on SteamOS, just like on other Linux systems.

SteamOS, being a Linux-based operating system, generally supports a wide range of drivers for various hardware, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

1. Printers and Scanners:
   • Printers: Most printers from major brands (like HP, Canon, Epson) should work well on SteamOS, as they are usually supported by open-source printer drivers available for Linux. You can install them via the CUPS (Common UNIX Printing System) interface, which is available on most Linux distributions. In case a specific printer isn't supported by default, you can often find drivers or install the required packages manually.
   • Scanners: For scanners, many devices are supported by open-source tools like SANE (Scanner Access Now Easy). You may need to install additional drivers or packages through the terminal or package manager.
2. Virtual Reality (VR):
   • SteamOS has good support for VR headsets, particularly those that are compatible with SteamVR. If you're using a headset like the HTC Vive or Valve Index, it should work well, as SteamOS is optimized for these devices. For other VR hardware, support might vary, and you may need to manually install the necessary drivers or software. However, SteamVR on Linux has generally improved over time.
3. Steering Wheels and Gaming Controllers:
   • Steering wheels and other gaming peripherals are usually well-supported on SteamOS, especially if they are compatible with Steam's Big Picture Mode and Steam Input. Popular brands like Logitech, Thrustmaster, and others tend to work out of the box.
   • However, for non-Steam games or specific hardware, you might need to configure drivers manually or use third-party tools to ensure full functionality.

In general, SteamOS supports a lot of hardware, but some specific devices, particularly less common or newer models, might require additional setup or manual installation of drivers. The SteamOS Desktop Mode (Linux desktop environment) gives you access to package managers, so you can manage drivers easily if needed.

Fanatec hardware, such as racing wheels and pedals, may not be fully plug-and-play on SteamOS (or Linux in general) due to limited native support compared to Windows. However, there are options to make them work, though some setup might be required.

1. Linux Compatibility:
   • Fanatec Wheels: Fanatec's racing wheels, like the CSL Elite Racing Wheel or Podium series, may not have official Linux drivers. However, some community-driven solutions or open-source projects like SimHub or Steam's native support for controllers might allow you to use these devices. Steam's Big Picture Mode and Steam Input can often recognize and configure controllers (including racing wheels), but it may require tweaking for full compatibility.
2. Pedals:
   • Pedals are generally treated as USB HID (Human Interface Devices) on Linux, so most pedal sets, including those from Fanatec, can be recognized by SteamOS as standard input devices. There might be some limited functionality, but advanced features like vibration or custom mapping could require additional configuration.
3. Community Support:
   • As with other peripheral hardware, much of the support for Fanatec devices on Linux comes from the community. Websites, forums, and Linux racing communities like those on Reddit or GitHub might offer tips, custom drivers, or patches to improve the experience.

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Well, I start to get very seriously interested. My impression is that it is less a gaming-exlcuisvely but more a general Linux OS with specific suitability for gaming.


My machine is still working. I have time left to monitor how this develoment unfolds over the year. Maybe more time left than I fear. I am not in a hurry to buy a new rig, not at all.