Hardware notes

Shadowfetch Linux targets ordinary 64-bit Intel and AMD PCs. The short version: 8 GB RAM and 100 GB disk is comfortable; 16 GB+ is better if you plan to run local AI models.

Recommended system

• CPU: 64-bit Intel or AMD processor. Newer multi-core CPUs make local AI, video, and creative workloads much nicer.
• Memory: 4 GB minimum, 8 GB recommended for the desktop, 16 GB+ recommended for local AI and heavier creative work.
• Storage: 40 GB minimum, 100 GB+ recommended. Local AI models can consume several GB each.
• Graphics: Intel and AMD graphics use the normal Mesa stack. NVIDIA systems ship with the proprietary driver stack and hybrid laptops may still need manual tuning.
• Firmware: UEFI or legacy BIOS. Secure Boot is not signed yet, so disable Secure Boot before booting the ISO.

NVIDIA and hybrid laptops

The ISO includes the proprietary NVIDIA stack so NVIDIA desktops and laptops have a working path on first boot. Non-NVIDIA systems remove the stack after first boot to reclaim disk. Hybrid laptops can still vary by vendor firmware. PRIME offload is the intended path for discrete-GPU apps.

__NV_PRIME_RENDER_OFFLOAD=1 __GLX_VENDOR_LIBRARY_NAME=nvidia blender

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and peripherals

Hardware support comes mostly from Debian testing firmware and kernel packages. Intel Wi-Fi is usually uneventful. Some Broadcom, Realtek, fingerprint readers, RGB controllers, and very new Bluetooth chipsets may need follow-up firmware work.

Virtual machines

Shadowfetch boots in common VMs. Allocate at least 2 CPU cores, 4 GB RAM, and 40 GB disk. Enable 3D acceleration if your hypervisor supports it. Local AI inside a VM is possible, but bare metal is the real target.

What to include in hardware reports

• Exact ISO filename and checksum result.
• Computer model, CPU, GPU, RAM, disk type, and Wi-Fi chipset if known.
• UEFI vs legacy BIOS, Secure Boot state, and whether the live session booted.
• For installer issues, the Calamares step where it failed.