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I've got a 2nd generation Intel i5 processor with integrated graphics. In live usb mode, Ubuntu uses this one and Unity works fine. After installation with automatical updates and 3rd party software installation, I can't use Unity, and Ubuntu seems to use the nVidia grahpics card. Though Jockey tells me the driver would be activated but not in use.

Right after Login, it tells me I lack 3d support for Compiz. After removing the driver, Unity works again. Even after installing the Nouveau driver it works. I'd be really happy if someone could tell me why that happens and how I'm able to use Unity with the official nVidia driver, because it still is much better than Nouveau.

Jorge Castro
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axle
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3 Answers3

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try the steps in this blog - installing-hardware-drivers-in-ubuntu and if its still not working get unity-2d from software centre (its almost like unity-3d but based on qt and is most likely will be the default in 11.10) and login using unity-2d!

avi
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  • Driver is installed correctly, thanks though. Actually I don't like Qt that much, so I would like to avoid any contact :P. Also it has to be possible to use the normal Unity with my driver, and I'd appreciate that a lot :). – axle Apr 28 '11 at 23:44
  • It is recommended that you do not try to install NVIDIA drivers on Optimus based systems. – nik May 05 '11 at 14:10
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The Sandy Bridge system with a NVIDIA 410M graphics seems to be a laptop with NVIDIA Optimus technology. If so, you should not even try to install the restricted drivers from NVIDIA, they are unlikely to help.

Lookup up other notes around here and you will find that Optimus is not supported on Ubuntu yet. The only system I know which will work with it is Windows 7.

Would be useful if you gave the exact laptop brand and model -- and, recheck if it specs Optimus.

nik
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  • You're right, it is a Lenovo Z370 with Optimus technology. It' a pretty new laptop, so I was glad Ubuntu supported it at all :). Windows was preinstalled and worked fine indeed. Too bad that Ubuntu does not yet :/ Thanks though for you answer. – axle Apr 30 '11 at 12:29
  • @axle, also see http://askubuntu.com/q/36930/1352 – nik May 05 '11 at 14:14
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The support for Nvidia Optimus under Linux isn't that bad these days. Have a look at this website, which explains how bumblebee allows to have a hybrid system working with both the integrated and discrete graphics card at the same time: http://launchpad.net/~hybrid-graphics-linux

719016
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