Has Ubuntu Replaced Windows on Your Box?

[Don Dwiggins]

Since I've just gotten started with Ubuntu, it hasn't yet.  Following 
are the things I'll need for a partial replacement on my primary machine:

- Printing: I have an HP Officejet T45; I'd like to be able to do 
everything from Ubuntu I can from Windows: print, scan, and fax.  I 
don't fax very often, but I'd like not to have to go back to Windows 
just to do it (or print a copy and then fax it manually).

I can easily choose the print quality that I desire for each print job 
by selecting Properties from the print dialog.  I want that under Ubuntu.

Also, the Windows driver for this printer supports two-sided printing, 
by printing the odd pages, then pausing while you reload the sheets, 
then printing the even pages.  I'd like to be able to do that under 
Ubuntu as well.

- My PIM: I've used the Ecco personal information manager for about 10 
years, and I don't want to lose it.  I've tried it under earlier 
versions of Wine, and there were some important bits that didn't work. 
If I can get that working, it'll go a long way toward freedom from Windows.

Aside from these things, I think I've got most of what I'll need for the 
partial escape.  For a full replacement, though, I'll need the following:

- VPN/Remote Desktop: I work at home a lot, and use my office computer 
via Remote Desktop.  I'm hoping to find Linux client software that will 
allow me to do this.

Any advice or encouragement appreciated.
-- 

Don Dwiggins	
don at dondwiggins.net
   "Experience is what you get when you were expecting something else."
                              -- Seen on an office wall