I’ve been trying to figure out the best way to do this and I think this is a good place to start.

Several people have suggested that the new version of TheAcerGuy have a section called “How to…” with detailed instructions on how to perform particular tasks (setting up recovery disks, installing applications on the Aspire One, etc.) with printable instructions, that sort of thing.

OK, today I had a long and very pleasant conversation with Simone and the way we see it, we have to draw a line (albeit a thin one) between what Acer can officially sanction (the How to… section) and all the other weird and wonderful tweaks that exist out there but blow your warranties out the window. (the forum section).

So where do we start? Well, I’d like you to help me draw up a list of your favourite applications that you can’t live without.

What I find happening from the many mails I’ve received asking for help is that people are buying the Aspire One and want to set it up the same way they have their laptops. That means the same programs, same plugins and because the Aspire One is not exactly a friendly environment to install new stuff on (I’m talking about Real player plugins), well, that’s where we might be able to help.

Which brings me to this list. I have a few programs that I want and need to install on my Aspire One and am going to find out whether it’s possible. If it is, I will make a video showing you how I did it so that you can do the same.

But as this is all about you and not me, I’d also like to hear about the applications you think it needs. Again, I’ll do the homework and then post the results.

Here’s my shortlist so far:

- Skype
- Vodafone Mobile Connect (3G connectivity)
- Real Player
- VLC player
- SHOUTcast broadcasting software

What do you need?