Issue #145 / Dec 2012

Linux has several convenient package management systems, but they are not entirely free of weaknesses. We show you how to keep the RPM package management system permanently stable and how to get rid of some ballast with just two small programs: rpmorphan and rpmrestore.

Hdparm is the tool to use when it comes to tuning your hard disk or DVD drive, but it can also measure read speed, deliver valuable information about the device, change important drive settings, and even erase SSDs securely.

Searching for errors on an SMTP server via Telnet and test mails can seem like a never-ending obstacle course. The utility called Swaks helps bring the finish line within reach.

Stop re-inventing the wheel and build your web applications with the excellent tools already available.

Kotlin, a small island in the Gulf of Finland, is also the name of a new programming language that aims to become a modern alternative to Java.

A human observer can register clusters in a two-dimensional set of points at a glance. Artificial intelligence has a harder time getting it done; however, the relatively simple k-means method delivers usable results.

Klaus Knopper is the creator of Knoppix and co-founder of LinuxTag expo. He currently works as a teacher, programmer, and consultant. If you have a configuration problem, or if you just want to learn more about how Linux works, send your questions to: klaus@linux-magazine.com

Do you have problems getting to sleep after a late night computer session? Does the monitor brightness hurt your eyes? Several Linux tools are available that could help with these problems.

We show you an assortment of Calibre-related tricks to help you to get more out of this powerful ebook management application.

Managing email on an IMAP server is part of everyday business. The slim client Geary makes it as simple on the desktop as it is on many mobile devices – despite a few remaining shortcomings.