Re: [TCLUG:4383] Sparc and Linux

[Peter Lukas <peter@math.umn.edu>]

I just adapted my reinstaller to cover sparc and alpha linux as well as
the existing x86 linux.  Getting sparcs to be compatable with the
reinstaller was a little tough since there are so many potential
differences (proms, sbus, pci, etc...)  The ipc and elc's run sparc linux
pretty well and the 4's and 5's look really nice.  X configuration is a
no-brainer since there's no need for a config file.  It's pretty stable,
but the lack of application support isn't too hot (there's at least a
glibc-based netscape). The sun boot loader, SILO is a little unforgiving,
especially to those who are already uncomforatble with LILO.  At least the
newer proms are smart enough to recognize ext2 filesystems.

Peter Lukas

On Tue, 2 Mar 1999, Jim Raney wrote:

> I've got an IPX at home that I run 2.0.35 on.  Works well, no complaints.
> I don't run X on it so I have no idea how that would go.  I imagine it
> should run pretty well on a 5.  One fun thing you can do is is install the
> openprom stuff during a kernel compile and muck about with your prom
> settings under linux (not for the faint hearted :).  Another advantage
> is the protected stack space, making buffer overflow exploits less
> likely to succeed.  I'm planning on replacing mine with a 5 at some point
> in the future unless I can score an IPX or Classic with a Weitek Power-up.
> The only negative thing I've had happen is that dropping to the PROM
> console and attempting to continue after mucking with the PROM doesn't
> always work (hence the openprom).  This, however, may only be an issue
> with SUN4c's; I haven't really looked into it.
> 
> Jim Raney
> Sysadmin, Citilink Internet
> 
> On Tue, 2 Mar 1999, Bob Tanner wrote:
> 
> > Anyone care to comment on stability of Sparc Linux?
> > 
> > I have a Sparc5 that I'd like to install Linux on it. Good idea?
> > 
> > -- 
> > Bob Tanner <tanner@real-time.com>       | Phone : (612)943-8700
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