I have a computer that pooped out on me and I'd like to switch it over to Linux for several reasons. I can explain them later. But to make a long story short, I'm doing this to learn.

I dabbled in electrical engineering in college for 2 years before dropping out, so I know enough about computers to get me into trouble. I know very little about software, but I am researching what needs to be done. I've already made an Ubuntu CD to start this project, but I am missing some components (mainly a monitor) to fire up the old computer and make working on it practical. I also am pretty much broke, but I am saving money to buy parts for this.

Here's where I'm getting confused. I don't know what I'll need to add/replace to get this thing going. I have this vision of an awesome computer that sits in my man-cave; storing my music and pictures, playing pirated movies on the TV, and being able to handle anything my devious mind can throw at it. But I've read lots of conflicting tips on what kind of hardware can be used with a Linux install.

Is someone here willing to be my mentor? Or is their a 4x4wire-esque board I can pester instead? I'm more then happy to post crappy cell phone pics to answer any questions.

Thanks for reading.