Perhaps the idea of going to Linux gurus on Internet Relay Chat channels and UseNet newsgroups worries you, especially if you are going to be purchasing and configuring Linux-compatible hardware. Not to worry. Linux tends to be more dynamic than other Unix because it has a much larger user base and development team. The idea of building a Linux-compatible system of course, may frighten the integrator who is used to dealing with typical channel offerings from Compaq, HP, IBM and Sun. Linux supports a wide range of PC hardware with a few caveats Linux, like Windows NT and many commercial Unixes for the PC platform, prefers Adaptec, Buslogic, and DPT SCSI host adapters.
Special care needs to be taken when choosing video cards.
The general rule is to stay a generation behind, as the latest whiz-bang Windows accelerator may not be supported yet. RedHat, which sells the MetroX accelerated commercial X server with its product, is more aggressive with supported cards, so check before you build. If you must have a turnkey Linux system, VA Research , Mountain View, Calif., will configure a Linux-compatible machine according to your specifications, or you can buy a preconfigured unit with all server software preloaded and ready to go. Ziff-Davis Inc. All Rights Reserved.