Here is my situation:
I have a 14 GB USB stick with Ubuntu 11.10, and loads of video files, and eBooks for use at the pub/coffee shop/park away from my main computer at home.
I have a Dell Mini 9 netbook with a dead/crashed 8gb hdd.
I don't have any money to replace the netbook or hdd - no really, I don't.
Here is what I would like to do with help, instructions, and assistance if it is possible/not completely stupid:
I want to be able to use my dead netbook (with good keyboard, trackpad and screen) to:
watch *.avi video (and other video files like mkv etc), so would like the codecs for the built-in video/media player in Ubuntu 11.10 OR help installing VLC on the USB stick.
read eBooks using FBReader or Calibre's built-in reader soiftware so need assistance, instructions to install/run that software from the USB Stick...
Surf the web, so need to be able to install the Wi-Fi drivers if possible
Do I just need to start the netbook with the USB stick in, connected by cable to the internet router, and run Software Centre?
If I do that and reboot will the Ubuntu on the USB stick then include VLC Media Player and Calibre/FB Reader?
If not, how can I fix that up please?
Is it far more complex than that, and if so, can anyone help me?
I am a beginner with Ubuntu, but I know about the Terminal, and sudo, and can run simple commands like sudo get-apt upgrade.