Time to talk about my writerdeck

2026-05-23 | original

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Why This Matters

This article highlights how repurposing old hardware with minimal Linux setups can create distraction-free writing environments, emphasizing the importance of tailored tech solutions for productivity. It showcases the potential for consumers and developers to optimize existing devices for specific tasks, reducing digital clutter and enhancing focus.

Key Takeaways

Using lightweight Linux setups can transform old laptops into dedicated writing devices.
Custom configurations like tty environments improve focus by minimizing distractions.
Repurposing hardware with tailored software enhances productivity and extends device lifespan.

tldr: I installed console-only Debian on an old laptop (no desktop OS at all)

I added some packages to make it work better for writing:

network-manager for connecting to hotspots while I'm away

for connecting to hotspots while I'm away

kmscon for custom fonts and more than 16 colors in the tty

for custom fonts and more than 16 colors in the tty

tmux for a nice status bar and rudimentary screen tiling, as well as acpi and light for battery and backlight details, respectfully

for a nice status bar and rudimentary screen tiling, as well as and for battery and backlight details, respectfully

neovim as my editor and vim-vimwiki to give myself a personal wiki

as my editor and to give myself a personal wiki

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