Using a template for distribution evaluation, I have installed and tested FC5-test2. Unfortunately since I did not install FC5-test1 due to installer limitations, I cannot compare this with test1. However, from what I’ve seen so far it seems much better than the poorly created FC4. Installer I chose to install using the install from ISO images on disk option (available via the linux askmethod boot option). I burned CD1 to a CD-RW and booted.

The second beta for Fedora Core 5 is available for download and testing. The bittorrent page is updated as well as the main Fedora download page. I do not think the main Release Notes have been updated yet, but some of the release highlights include: A completely revamped look and feel including a bubbly new theme, wallpaper, screensaver and logo has been provided that is visually appealing and demonstrates the exciting and user friendly nature of Fedora.

I updated my guide to compiling MPlayer on Fedora. Of course, this guide is no longer necessary to most people, since RPM’s are available, however seeing as the software is a bit complex I compile it to suit my own needs. I’ve received many emails from NON Fedora users who have found the guide useful. So I will maintain it. Some things have changed in the past 7 months. LIVE.COM, which provided streaming library support for MPlayer, was renamed to LIVE555.

Due to an upgrade in GCC, the next test release of Fedora Core 5 will be pushed back a few weeks. Personally, I planned on using the holidays to test it, but I do not think that will be an option. From the fedora-devel mailing list: Ok, it won’t be a full month, but due to the recent upgrade of gcc and the subsequent full rebuild of everything that does (and doesn’t, whoops!

The Fedora Team has released the first test release of the upcoming Fedora Core 5 (FC5). Notable Features of FC5 Test1 Modular X.org Vastly improved Asian language input support with SCIM Kernel based on 2.6.15-rc1-git3 GCC 4.0.2 GNOME 2.12 KDE 3.4.92 Xen 3.0 snapshot for i386 Improved Open Source Java including gcj, classpath, tomcat, jonas, eclipse, and much more 1600+ Extras packages conveniently available via yum Major installer changes to use yum for package handling Pup!