Steam OS

[Skybird]

The answer to Windows 11 drama?

[Skybird]

I still have no real overview what SteamOS does allow to use and what not. But it may be a real alternative to a gaming installation under Windows Damn 11. In that case I would consider to get a cheaper small secondary computer again (laptop, webbook...) for browsing, shopping, homebanking, maybe some home computing like text writing and photo editing, that runs under a normal Linux.

If Steam OS would allow installation of Firefox, an email client, Open Office, then i am already quite certain that this would become my next big system when my current W10 rig, 7.5 years old, breaks down.

Anyway, I will not get W11. Under no circumstances. Its way too dangerous and compromises my most essential interests, and not due to a technical mishap or bad update, but intentionally and deliberately. Its unacceptable. And I do not even list the bloatware, the constant advertizing, the notorious enforcement of stuff that nobody wanted or asked for, the broken updates messing up machines...

[Dargo]

The base system draws from Debian 8, code named Debian Jessie. Most/many Windows-based games run on SteamOS and other more general Linux distributions via Proton, a largely Valve-developed fork of Wine that's integrated into and supplied with Steam for Linux. Note that also the Steam Deck uses SteamOS. The biggest trouble spot is Windows games using anti-cheat, of course especially kernel-level, and some forms of third-party DRM. There's a general compatibility database at https://www.protondb.com/explore

Linux has mostly what windows has Firefox or other programmes are available on Linux, it is nowadays no problem to use Linux for normal use windows is not needed any more.

[Skybird]

Various YT videos say that Steam is working on adressing compatability issues with Windows anti cheat software, and also with nVidia drivers. From own experience (I know Linux since 2015) I know that it is not as trouble-free as it is sometimes claimed, its not all gold in Linux land, and compatability issues with software standards, drivers and hardware remain prominent, but also installation issues that one would see as teething problems - if these would not be ever appearing again and again and are present since practically 30 years or so now. Linux never really grew up. It improved, but it never fully matured for use by the wide general public. Until today I try to install Mint Cinammon 22.0 and 22.1 from four different USB sticks formatted in two formats and with four different GB sizes on three different laptops or on my PC - to no avail, I just do not get it to work, and I know the usual tips like deactivating secure boot and do a checkjsum cpomaprison of the downlaoded iso file and trying compat mode and so forth. I tried with disc in stallaiton as well, I even bought a book DVd with 22.0 to eb sure it was not the downölaod file I got. Installation was was problematic already ten years ago, and it never became less problematic. I know for sure that others face comparable issues as well. Thats why I am often close to throw Linux out of the window, and do not plan to even try getting things like specialised racing hardware or VR running under Linux and Proton alone. Heck, even the colour callibration of my Epson printer is a mess under Linux, a PITA, not to mention that every couple of months for no apparent reason drive volumes get unmounted, and then turn up with problems to remount them again.


So Linux is reliable when it works, and it cna be faster, and comfortable. But when it does not work and there is a problem, then its a PITA. I dont think they will ever change that.



There is a reason why Linux never has reached the mainstream market despite the obvious advantages that it also has, and even now with many angry people migrating from Windows 11 to Linux it has a market share of just 2 - 2.5%. It runs and handles nice as long as it runs nice, but beware the moment problems arise (and they do arise sooner or later) - then everbyody not being an insider and linux expert or nerd is lost. Its as if under Windows you suddenly get catapulted back into MSDOS 3.0.Who here can still do MS-DOS CLI stuff, eh?

Thats why I would like to have a playing rig under Steam OS (which indeed bases on Linuzx, but is niot Linux in the same way like android is a Linux bit it is not obvipous that it is Linux). And a small, a conbcertible or 14" netbopok for the rest, since I do not do any professional office work, only need a secure platform for email, banking stuff, amazon, browsing.

And honestly said, now at 58 the whole technical computer gimmickery starts to kill my nerves. These days I want a computer to just functio when I hit the swithcv button, nedding to finetune it evry coupel fo day sand tweka this and repair that justg kills my nerves. Thats the charm of an Android ohone - you switch it on, the damn thing works, period. Just that it is as wide open as a barn gate and Google overhgears everything you do on it. So, Android and sensitive data and account stuff done under it are a no-go for me. I sue it o nyl for harmless stuff with no big risks for getting compromised involved (as far as I can say).

(IBAN usage (mandatory!) , and Paypal guest fraudsters being a superbig problems that to close both banks and Paypal until today totally refuse, these damn a$$ho!e$. The user cannot defend against these scams, and the claimed buyer protection of Paypal works against him. Both banks and Paypal make it as difficult as they can for victims to get their money back from them.)

Its good that I lose interest in gaming more and more. The less one depends on a computer these days, the better.


Summary: a wellfunctioning Steam OS that is as reliable in hadling as Android and that allows also the use of email, browser, basic home computing stuff, would be a potential game changer, I think. Valve could have a winner there. And I really crave to leave Windows behind, I loved Windows 7, and I hated everything that came after that.

[Buddahaid]

Fine if gaming is your reason for owning a PC.

[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.

-----------------


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.

[d@rk51d3]

Printing is the main thing holding it back, IMHO.

You can jury-rig things to print by pasting to web browser and printing to an IP address, but no "native" printer support yet..... and it breaks after each update.

Other than that, you have a choice of popular web browsers, office suites, email clients. Zoom (which I use regularly) and Spotify are supported, as well as common torrent clients.

I haven't even scratched the surface of the software on hand.

Anti Cheat is broken......... but apparently will be broken in future Windows updates too (at BIOS level I think), so there will have to be a workaround/re-think for both parties there.

[Skybird]

^ You mean you cannot print normally under Steam OS, say an open office document or pdf or photo? Or do you mean that printer drivers need to be manually installed, like under any Linux distribution when the printer brand does not provide native linux drivers? I use an Epson ET printer (it has native Linux support). Problems - or not?


ChatGPT:
SteamOS has a Desktop Mode that allows you to use the system like a regular Linux desktop operating system. By default, SteamOS starts in Big Picture Mode, which is focused on gaming and using Steam. However, if you need more control over your system or want to use software outside of Steam (like setting up printers or installing other programs), you can switch to Desktop Mode.
Here’s how to switch to Desktop Mode:

1. Open Steam and be in Big Picture Mode.
2. Press the "Steam" button on your controller or the equivalent button on your keyboard to open the menu.
3. Go to "Settings" and then choose "System".
4. There, you’ll find the "Desktop Mode" option. Select it to switch to Desktop Mode.

In Desktop Mode, you'll have access to a full Linux desktop environment, with a desktop, file manager, and all typical Linux tools. From here, you can install applications, set up printers, or perform other administrative tasks.
If you're familiar with Linux, you can use the standard tools to install printer drivers, or you can also use the terminal for tasks.

[Catfish]

Steam OS sure looks interesting... I wonder which processor will be better suited if you want to run Windows and Linux via boot manager - Ryzen or Intel..

[Skybird]

I snapped it up repeatedly that AMD seems to be/work better for Linux. But cannot really evaluate it myself, not competent enough.

Also, I recall they said that AMD'S chips are more energy-economic. Laptop batteries should last a bit longer for example. I could imagine that on PC it translated into lower temps, less power hunger.



Plus the enormous problems with the recent incarnations from intel.

[d@rk51d3]

Zitat von Skybird

^ You mean you cannot print normally under Steam OS, say an open office document or pdf or photo? Or do you mean that printer drivers need to be manually installed, like under any Linux distribution when the printer brand does not provide native linux drivers? I use an Epson ET printer (it has native Linux support). Problems - or not?


ChatGPT:
SteamOS has a Desktop Mode that allows you to use the system like a regular Linux desktop operating system. By default, SteamOS starts in Big Picture Mode, which is focused on gaming and using Steam. However, if you need more control over your system or want to use software outside of Steam (like setting up printers or installing other programs), you can switch to Desktop Mode.
Here’s how to switch to Desktop Mode:

1. Open Steam and be in Big Picture Mode.
2. Press the "Steam" button on your controller or the equivalent button on your keyboard to open the menu.
3. Go to "Settings" and then choose "System".
4. There, you’ll find the "Desktop Mode" option. Select it to switch to Desktop Mode.

In Desktop Mode, you'll have access to a full Linux desktop environment, with a desktop, file manager, and all typical Linux tools. From here, you can install applications, set up printers, or perform other administrative tasks.
If you're familiar with Linux, you can use the standard tools to install printer drivers, or you can also use the terminal for tasks.

Nope. Not in my experience.

I did find a flatpack for Epson Scanners, which, once installed and the printers IP entered, will handshake with the scanner wirelessly.

I haven't tried a wired connection, as I can't locate my box of spare cables..... but there are no options in settings anywhere for adding printers anyway.

You can't really install drivers manually, as the "packaging" method is incompatible between Linux distros. The handfull of people who have managed it, can't make it persist.

Someone would need to convert a package into a flatpack for installation, but persitence may still be an issue.

You can apparently add IPP/CUPS to Google Chrome, add your printer IP to its settings, then open your docs with chrome and print from there....... But I've had no luck connecting to the printer that way either.

[Skybird]

^ Are we really talking about Steam OS for PC, not Steamdeck with that OS, which is a handheld?

I certainly do not know it from own experience, but I have a hard time that they release an OS for PC that lacks such a basic, fundamental ability.

And especially Epsons should usually come with native Linux support. I certainly installed my Epson ET-2750 with drivers by Epson.


The Steamdeck seems to cause troubles for printers, yes, internet says so.

[d@rk51d3]

Zitat von Skybird

^ Are we really talking about Steam OS for PC, not Steamdeck with that OS, which is a handheld?

I certainly do not know it from own experience, but I have a hard time that they release an OS for PC that lacks such a basic, fundamental ability.

And especially Epsons should usually come with native Linux support. I certainly installed my Epson ET-2750 with drivers by Epson.


The Steamdeck seems to cause troubles for printers, yes, internet says so.

Yes, Steam Deck (which is still a PC. You can install windows on it if you so desire).

I wasn't aware of an official "PC" specific release. The only ones I've seen used are installations of the Steam Deck OS, and were marketed as "use at your own risk".

I've been playing around a bit more today, can detect and add the printer via CUPS on the web browser.

It's even selectable in Libre Office.......... but prints gibberish.
Will take a bit more fiddling, but there is light at the end of the tunnel.

[Skybird]