Catbird Linux 2.5 Released
(Blog Post)
Hello Linux Users, Catbird Linux has been upgraded to version 2.5 and is available for download. This version brings software updates, including a fresh Linux kernel version 6.9. Note that I have switched this this kernel to micro architecture x86-x64-v2, in order to have compatibility with older computers. That's right, friends: this system can actually run on your old hardware from 2009. I have been using Catbird Linux for a considerable amount of note-taking, prose writing, and multimedia editing. It works, as a Linux system should. And unlike Windows, it works with no surveillance, subscription teases, or questions asked. Cheers, Phil Collier / Catbird Linux
Last updated: 2024-07-23
Catbird Linux 1.7.0 Released
(Blog Post)
Catbird Linux 1.7.0 is now available for download. This one has some changes for the i3 window manager and a new SDR client. Caja, the file manager. and Alacritty, the terminal emulator, are now configured to be automatically hidden on the scratchpad or shown on the present workspace. When you hit a keybind to initially open either of those apps, they will open as fairly large floating windows. Instead of closing them when no longer needed, you should hit the same keybind to remove the app from view. Notice that I didn't say, "close" the app... The auto show and hide function moves the affected applications to the scratchpad if it finds them opened on a workspace. Conversely, if the auto show and hide function finds the application already on the scratchpad, it is moved to the present workspace as a floating window. To summarize: Caja and Alacritty are opened if not running and toggled in or out of view by their associated hot keys. I am enjoying that, as the system brings them up or stows them away in mere milliseconds - far faster than fully opening or closing them. The other notable item for version 1.7.0 is the addition of SuperSDR, a client for KiwiSDRs which makes it possible to tune in mediumwave or shortwave signals from around the world without dependence on the web browser. Sure, the KiwiSDRs present a nice web interface; SuperSDR works with much less RAM, lower latency, on a full screen, and with a much better spectrum waterfall. It is really nice. SuperSDR, like Catbird Linux, is largely operated by the keyboard. Hit "F" to enter a new frequency , "A" to receive AM, "U" or "L" for upper or lower sideband, respectively. Float the cursor over "HELP" for the full set of keybinds for the radio client. It is pretty slick for a news junkie like myself, who can pull up AM talk radio from different regions at will. It is a lot like the configuration I set in Skywave Linux, but Catbird has better code working behind the scenes. Watch my video here to see these changes in action. Regards, PC / Catbird Linux
Last updated: 2023-02-28
Catbird Linux Version 2.0 Released!
(Blog Post)
Greetings to all, I am pleased to announce the release of Catbird Linux version 2.0.0 . We are now based on rolling Debian (Sid), with improved features, freshened packages, and a smaller iso image. That's right - the Catbird is slimmer, more muscular, and ready to help you be creative, smart, and effective. The distro looks great too, having switched from i3 to the Dynamic Window Manager (DWM). It is lighter and quicker than i3, with just the right patched to help you move through your work flow with minimal friction. For details on software versions, see the list within the readme file or visit Catbirdlinux.com Cheers, Phil Collier / Catbird Linux
Last updated: 2023-10-09