Hi guys, thought I would stick my nose in this one too. 

Through the On-Disk.com Developers Portal, I have gotten to know more than my share of Linux distros and the guys that have created them. 

I would agree, that if you're looking to test the waters, I would go with a liveOS. 

One thing I won't agree to is Linux Distros being behind the times with hardware detection.  I think something like PCLinuxOS would knock your socks off with ease of use, and advanced hardware detection.  Not to mention it is a live OS and will run from a CD, but it can also be installed as a full blooded, stand alone OS.

~Karlie
Owner, Webpath Technologies
BTW, I can send you a CD with any Linux OS you want if you're still intrested, I have a lot of linux at On-disk.com. http://on-disk.com/index.php/cPath/28
You don't have to download it. 

Yes, I know, but there are many... many... people barely able to operate basic functions on their computer. I would even wager you know more than one.  That alone is 90% of the reason help desks exists. 

Not to mention that about 40% of Americans only access the internet with low-band connections. 

But beyond needing IE5.5SP2, On-Disk has the ability to produce individual downloads to CD/DVD, or give an independent software developer the chance to off set development costs by adding their work through he Developers Portal. 

We've also have a personal service coming soon.  It will be for those that need something produced and shipped but it's not a download or something for the general public to purchase. 

Something we could do this time of year ... What if you gathered up all of last years digital pictures, came up with a spectacular, full-color image for the CD, and wanted it mailed to everyone on your Holiday card list. 

If you can produce it, we can print it, burn it, and ship it. 

~Karlie