| On one hand, I am a big Linux fan. I use it on my PC at home, and I even
prefer it in some respects to Digital UNIX because it runs so well
On the other hand, putting on a business hat for a moment, I am pleased, for
once, to see our company focus on something, and at least *attempt* to do it
well, and do it right - and that's servers.
Since it would be nice to still be able to sell Alpha workstations somewhere
beside the high end, Linux might provide both the low cost and potential volume
to do it. In my heart, that's what I would really like to see. On the other
hand, I do not know who wants to put their hand up, because we are getting a
very clear message from Digital UNIX management, for example, that while we will
continue to sell workstations, we want to absolutely minimize the investment in
them, instead, maximize the return on what we've already spent and capitalize on
the potentially greater return for servers.
Now if we can justify Linux in the server space, and then tack on low cost
workstation support, all at minimal expenditure, that might get someone's attention.
If we could generate 6 or 7 digit volume sales, that would REALLY get someone's
attention, I would think.
I applaud all that Jon Hall and the Dave(s) have done to at least allow Linus
to have access to systems and for doing some driver work, etc. Have the lower
Alpha chip prices had a big positive effect on Linux Alpha system sales? That
would really get attention, because, otherwise Alpha workstation sales are down,
while server sales are up... kinda paints the picture.
Brian
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