Alpha/linux

[Guy Coates]

I currently run debian on alpha at the moment, simply because it was the
most recent disto for alpha. Debian seem to be pretty good about keeping
software maintained on all linux ports, not just ix86. Having said that, I
have used Suse previously with no complaints. So long as your distro is
supported, (ie you can get security updates) you should be set.

The alpha architecture has a number of nice features making it cluster
friendly, like the ability to network boot via the srm console, making
automated OS installs/updates a breeze. (I imagine many people on this
list will mourn its demise.)

Top tips:

Get the super-page kernel patch and get the compaq C/C++/Fortran compilers
+ flat maths libs (available at no cost for non-profit use) . You will see
big improvements on code speed over gcc and the stock kernel.

Cheers,

Guy Coates

-- 
Guy Coates,  Informatics System Group
The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SA, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1223 834244 ex 7199