This is a little description of how I runned different linux distributions:
Video:
Graphics card: Trident cyberblade i1 shared memory ( you could configure 2mb, 4 mb or 8 mb to use at the BIOS menu )
RedHat 7.3: No problem during installation, you must select Trident Cyberblade Generic driver with 1024x768 resolution or lower.I set 16bpp and works fine, I haven't tried 24bpp but other 1201EA user with Debian assures it works in his Debian ( His review is in this web site too )
RedHat 8.0 : Even easier, but when you are using gnome and move the gnome-panel , it simply crashes with a fatal error next time you log in with same user.I don't know why, but other desktops/managers don't crash, is a Gnome2 bug.
Suse Linux 7.3 : The graphical installer crashes over and over no matter the graphic card you choose is the right one ( even when you reach the stage of pre-testing it the installer crashes ).
I encorauge you to install it using the text - based installer and configure X after boot ( you will have to update the driver and Server, I suppose ).
Suse Linux 8.0 : No problem, follow the steps provided by the graphicalk installer.
Suse Linux 8.1 : As 8.0
Mandrake Linux 8.2 : The graphical installer detects the driver with no problems.AS RedHat 7.3.
Mandrake Linux 9.0 : As 8.2.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Don´t choose the amount of memory of the graphics card during installation.RedHAt installer will auto detect and if you do probably Xwindows will crash.
Sound
Sound card: Via i686 Ac97 codec
RedHat 7.3: Properly detected, it starts with low volume but isn't a configuration problem, with the ( graphical ) mixers of Kde or Gnome is easy to set the volume values.
RedHat 8.0 :As in 7.3
Suse Linux 8.0 :As Redhat
Suse Linux 8.1 :As RedHat
Mandrake Linux 8.2 :As Redhat
Mandrake Linux 9.0 :As Redhat
pcmcia
I still haven't used pcmcia slot but system seem s to configure it properly ( take a look at the boot logs )
Modem
Modem: HSF micromodem ( Conexant )
It's a @#%ing winmodem. I don't know if there are any attempt to make it work under linux
More info on Linux on Laptops: