Mike,

In answer of some of your questions (on- and off-list):

I use a variety of different Linux distros and BSD flavours. I don't have
any suggestion on what is easiest. Some have different features that make
them easier for different things.

I have used CoolLinux live CD (which is based on Red Hat) a few times for
a few classes (maybe around 60+ students total). It worked great for
easily setting up X and networking, USB, and even detected WinModem (but
we didn't use). We used CoolLinux on a variety of hardware and in some
cases, the X was setup automatically.

One reason why I prefer to use *BSD is because they have great security
records over the past several years. (Also on a religious note: I prefer
the BSD licensing.)

Another reason to think about when choosing an operating system is the
knowledge, helpfulness and behaviour of the community (like mailing
lists). You will find that even great operating systems may have rude
communities.

You mention that you have certain hardware and software that may or may
not work. Some consider this as an major inconvenience. I just consider it
a trade-off, because on some non-free (and not open source) platforms, I
can't easily do many of the tasks that I need to do easily and reliably.

If you want my suggestion: try Gentoo, install it, and use it as it
becomes real Debian. (I should be suggesting my own Linux distro :) But it
is not easy enough and doesn't have any real installer yet.)

Or use NetBSD. I know you can easily install it again, but it does take
some time to get it up and ready as a full office productivity
workstation (without GUIs for installing).

(By the way, I have NetBSD live CDs which my company made that make it
easy to try NetBSD and a variety of software for console and X
environment. I can't remember if I gave you one in March.)

Off-list, you asked if *BSD is good for beginners. In my opinion, it is,
because it encourages you to learn and understand that basics and "why"
things happen. (Yes, I probably could help you next time I am in town. By
the way, I was in town a couple weeks ago teaching FreeBSD -- I should
have called you.)

Also, you mentioned some modem, pilot cradle (what is that?), web cam and
scanner.  What are the specific hardware names (model numbers too) for
each of these?

   Jeremy C. Reed
   http://www.bsdnewsletter.com/