Linux Workstations

["Bob Cagle" <bcagle@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

I'm curious - how does the new Lindows OS stand-up to RedHat and the
others?

Bob Cagle
IT Manager
Lynk, Inc.
913-492-9202 x41


-----Original Message-----
From: Joel Cochran [mailto:jrc@xxxxxxxxxx] 
Sent: Thursday, October 02, 2003 5:53 AM
To: midrange-l@xxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: Re: MIDRANGE-L Digest, Vol 2, Issue 1524

Booth,

I'm sure you'll get a more seasoned response than mine, but as one who
recently dumped windows for a Linux workstation I hope I can provide
some valuable insight:

1.  Unless you REALLY need a windows program don't bother with the dual
boot.  But obviously save all the important stuff off your computer
first...

If you think you REALLY need a perticular windows program, I'll bet
there is a replacement for it somewhere (but I'm not sure about
opsnav).  

Even if there is no replacement, there is still hope: WinForLin (sp?) is
a Linux product that will let you install a windows environment inside
your Linux environment.  You would essentially have a Windows OS you
could open when you ahve to but still be within the confines of Linux.

2.  http://tn5250.sourceforge.net - a well done 5250 emulator for Linux
(and others, actually).  Open source project with lots of support (Scott
Klement and some other heavy weights work on it) and a decent mailing
list at linux5250@xxxxxxxxxxxx

If you aren't sure, see if you can get a really cheap box, maybe even an
old one lying around.  A PIII 550 will run Linux pretty well.  Install
your flavor (I would recommend RedHat9 for the easiest to get up and
running).  You'll quickly find that it is as easy to use and navigate as
Windows.  This isn't to say that there's not more to learn, because
there is, but you can be a functinal user in short order.  Not to
mention oodles and oodles of mailing lists, websites, and chatrooms
where you can get help.

My advice?  Take the plunge!

:-)

Joel
http://www.rpgnext.com