Maemo Live CD is a Linux distribution that is based on Knoppix (specifically Kanotix) and can be run from a CD.
One thing to note is that the Live CD is still in alpha quality, so there may be some issues encountered. These are listed at the bottom of the page.
Using Maemo Live CD is quite simple. You can boot directly into an XFCE desktop with a running Xvnc and scratchbox terminal, and start using the Maemo GUI and applications. Version 0.5a also allows for working over a TCP/IP network, which is great for physically connected machines or VMware and Virtual PC host machines. The scratchbox directory is available as a samba share, SSH login is allowed and the Maemo GUI is exported via Xvnc.
To get started, simply boot the Maemo Live-CD. If you don't need the GUI, you can edit the "kernel" line in grub and add "3" to boot to runlevel 3. Then, use your favourite SSH-Client to log in with the credentials "knoppix" and "maemo". Be sure to set some environment variables, including exporting DISPLAY=localhost:3.0 and setting LANGUAGE to en_GB.
Next, start the Maemo GUI using the command /scratchbox/login af-sb-init.sh start. Finally, use your favourite VNC-Viewer to connect to Xvnc. Don't forget to connect to "ip-address:3" since Xvnc is running on display 3. Additionally, a Samba server provides access to /home, /tmp, and /scratchbox.
Overall, Maemo Live CD is a useful tool for developers looking to experiment with Maemo GUI or app development. While still in alpha quality, it's definitely worth checking out.
Version 0.5.1a: N/A