I'm using it for about half a year now. I was surprised how easy it was. Most software you can get in debian packages and it installs similar like in windows.
For php I use gEdit, very lightweight Gnome editor with plugins. If you want full IDE eclipse PDT is the way to go.
For images I like GIMP.
I've 1GB of ram and Flash seems to be really heavy on the laptop, fan is on max when viewing flash.
Have been using Ubuntu on HP notebook exclusively for the past 2.5 years. Programming with GCC + Python + several browsers and multiple web servers.
Apt manages all the upgrades, patches fine. Upgraded from Ibex to Jaunty to Karmic without having to re-install anything. Just follow the release information.
Although the HP has only 1.5GB RAM, single 1.8GHz Celeron. I run the notebook screen and an external 22" LCD without problems across 4 desktops and typically have 10+ apps running concurrently. Gimp & OpenOffice are fine for typical uses. With more up to date hardware you won't be disappointed.
Yup, I use GIMP installed from getdeb.net as they usually have updates before Ubuntu repos get them. Also Inkscape is great as a vector editor. Digikam for photo/image management and occasionally I use it for some touch ups too.
I'm using it for about half a year now. I was surprised how easy it was. Most software you can get in debian packages and it installs similar like in windows.
For php I use gEdit, very lightweight Gnome editor with plugins. If you want full IDE eclipse PDT is the way to go.
For images I like GIMP.
I've 1GB of ram and Flash seems to be really heavy on the laptop, fan is on max when viewing flash.