Why IRIX sucks (was Re: [rescue] Sparcstation 2 help!Please)

[Kurt Huhn]

> The OS is a current product, and it's price is not based on the
depreciation
> value of the previous generations of machines... That you can buy a
machine
> without an OS for $300, does not mean you are entitled to/deserve a free
OS
> from the Mfg...
>

Right - totally agree.  If you want a current version of the OS, be prepared
to shell out cash.  If you only need an earlier version to get your
workstation up, look at eBay, Yahoo auctions, etc.  Ask around on the list -
I got a copy of 5.3 and 6.5.4. just by asking if anyone had a spare.  Point
in fact, I got both for free.

AFAIK, owning a SGI computer grants you a license to use Irix on that
computer.  If you know differently, please tell me so.  It might be urban
legend, but that's what's been floating around the net since I've owned SGI
machines.  Also, that is only licensed for the version of Irix that
originally was registered to that system.

All my supposing aside, you *can* find Irix media kits out there.  They will
install, you can use the system, and be productive.  There isn't a any form
of copy protection or CD key associated with installing Irix.  The only
thing a license will get you is access to certain regions of supportfolio
onliine, and corporate support.  If those are important for you, then you
*should* pay.  I've been quite happy with "unsupported" media, and continue
to be quite productive despite the lack of official support from SGI.

Kurt