In the meantime, I downloaded and burned an ISO of LMDE2, as well as all the versions of the new 18.1 that have come out recently:
XFCE, MATE, Cinnamon, KDE: https://www.linuxmint.com/download_all.php
LMDE worked just fine, but seemed to not run as fast as it has on the CF-30 and CF-52. So, while waiting for the new RAM and SSD, I burned a copy of the XFCE 18.1 found here: https://www.linuxmint.com/download.php
I used a Mint program that works every time for me. First I formatted my usb drive with USB Stick Formatter (found in Mint Menu).
Then I burned the ISO: from the mint page, using USB image Writer. I rebooted and then...
I ran the Live version of XFCE and just double clicked on the Install Icon on the desktop. and let her do her thing.
Takes about 10 minutes or so. Make sure you are plugged into AC power just in case, and follow the prompts. Once it loads the OS onto your hard drive, it will ask you to reboot or continue trying the live version. I always tell it to shut down, and once the power is off, then I turn the system back on and log in. The first thing you will want to do is log into your wireless network (unless you are hard wired and hooked up directly to the internet).
I looked up and ran a few tweaks found here: https://sites.google.com/site/easylinux ... -mint-xfce
and followed most of them. Things got very quick after following the advice and re-booting a few times. So far, everything I use works, and I did not have to tweak the system to get on to my company citrix system to get into expense reports, time cards, etc.
I can not wait to try this nice toughbook after the ram and ssd are upgraded. Forgot to mention, the first thing I did when I unboxed the system is wipe the drive of windows 7. For those having problems making a live usb install media, let us know and we'll try to get you on track. I do know that Unetbootin works when downloaded, installed, and run properly to make a Mint usb drive. If you are already using Mint, the usb image writer programs and usb stick formatter programs found above work as well. I encourage all that have been thinking of trying a Linux operating system, to dive in and give it a try. Mint 18 might not be the best distribution for an older Toughbook such as a CF-34, CF-18, CF-29, but there are many choices out there that will work. Cheers and Happy New Year.
![:salute: :salute:](./images/smilies/icon_salut.gif)