The Linux Distribution HOWTO
by Erik Troan, ewt@sunsite.unc.edu
v3.0, 10 February 1995
This document lists the various software distributions and services
available for Linux via mail order, anonymous FTP, and other sources.
It is based on previous versions by Matt Welsh, mdw@sunsite.unc.edu.
1. Introduction
There is no single distribution of the Linux software. Instead, there
are many such distributions, available both via anonymous FTP and mail
order on floppy, tape, or CD-ROM. This document is an attempt to
present information on many of the available distributions of Linux.
This document also contains information on many miscellaneous services
and goods available for Linux, ranging from consulting and support to
T-shirts and virtual beer.
The purpose of this document is to provide short summaries of the many
Linux distributions and mail-order services, and to provide pointers
for the reader to find more information. You shouldn't base your
decision of which Linux distribution to use based soley on this
document.
This is a PRELIMINARY version of the Distribution HOWTO. It is far
from complete; there are many more Linux distributions and services
than are listed here. Unfortunately, I have not received submissions
from many of the organizations providing these services. Please see
Section 4 at the end of this document for information on making a
submission. It's easy and will take less then five minutes.
1.1. New versions of this document
New versions of this document will be posted periodically (about once
a month) to the newsgroups comp.os.linux.answers and
comp.os.linux.misc. The document is archived on a number of Linux FTP
sites, including sunsite.unc.edu in pub/Linux/docs/HOWTO.
You can also view the latest version of this on the World Wide Web via
the URL http://sunsite.unc.edu/mdw/HOWTO/Distribution-HOWTO.html.
1.2. And so on...
Please see section ``New comp.os.linux.announce Policy'' at the end of
this document for information on how to make submissions to this
document.
Disclaimer: I make absolutely no guarantee as to the correctness of
the information, prices, and ordering details given in this document.
Several of the entries in this HOWTO are a bit outdated; check the
last modified field of each to get an idea. Furthermore, unless
otherwise stated the Linux software comes with ABSOLUTELY NO WARRANTY.
I do not endorse or work for any of the distributors listed in this
document. I merely include their information here as a service to the
Linux community, as a ``buyer's guide''. Inclusion in this document
does not mean that I recommend any of the products listed here.
The entries for each distributor are included as they sent them to me.
I am not responsible for any spelling errors or mistakes in the
content of this document; most of the entries here have only been
edited to a limited extent by myself.
Feel free to mail any questions or comments about this HOWTO to Erik
Troan, ewt@sunsite.unc.edu.
And now for the good stuff.
2. Linux Software Distributions
This section describes complete distributions of Linux software,
available either via anonymous FTP or from mail order.
In each of the following entries, my own comments are followed by the
information from the distributors themselves. You may safely disregard
anything I say. :)
An oft-recurring question in the Linux world is, ``What distribution
should I choose?'' This is not an easy question to answer: It depends
greatly on your needs and available resources.
The current de facto standard distribution is the Slackware release.
Slackware is easy to install and fairly complete. It's also more or
less up-to-date with current versions of Linux software. The Linux
Installation HOWTO documents installation of Slackware. I personally
recommend Slackware for most new Linux users.
However, if you have a CD-ROM drive, you have more distributions to
choose from. I haven't personally reviewed most of them, and you're
more likely to get help from people on the Net for distributions such
as Slackware (which is available freely on the Net, as well as on CD-
ROM). On the other hand, some CD-ROM distributions come with
documentation and support of their own. All I can say is that a good
number of people have had success installing and using the Slackware
distribution.
The Debian distribution is currently under development by a ``semi-
closed'' group of developers (rather then an individual) and has been
adopted as the Free Software Foundation's Linux distribution.
Other distributions such as Slackware Pro, Red Hat Linux, and
Yggdrasil take advantage of the storage space available on CD-ROM to
minimize the amount of hard disk space Linux takes.
The bottom line is that there's no easy way to pick a distribution out
of the air. My own suggestion is to use Slackware. Other people will
suggest MCC-Interim, TAMU, and others based on their own experience.
By way of disclaimer, I don't use Slackware myself (in fact, I don't
use any standard Linux distribution), but I have installed it for
testing purposes.
2.1. Slackware Linux Distribution
Distributor:
Patrick Volkerding, volkerdi@mhd1.moorhead.msus.edu.
Description:
Slackware Linux is a full featured distribution of the Linux
operating system designed for 386/486 computers with a 3.5"
floppy. Slackware changes rapidly, but here's a current
(partial) feature list:
A: Base Linux system
AP:
Various applications that do not need X
D: Program Development (C, C++, Kernel source, Lisp, Perl, etc.)
E: GNU Emacs (19.27, with and without X11 support. Your choice.)
F: FAQ lists (last updated: Oct 1994)
I: Info pages.
IV:
Interviews: libraries, include files, Doc and Idraw apps for
X
N: Networking (TCP/IP, UUCP, Mail)
OOP:
Object Oriented Programming (GNU Smalltalk 1.1.1) and X11
interface
Q: All kinds of extra kernels (based on Linux 1.1.59)
T: TeX
TCL:
Tcl/Tk/TclX, Tcl language, and Tk toolkit for developing X
apps
X: XFree-86 3.1 Base X Window System
XAP:
Applications for X
XD:
XFree-86 3.1 X server development, PEX extensions, and man
pages
XV:
XView3.2p1-X11R6. (OpenLook virtual Window Manager, apps)
Y: Games (that do not require X)
Availability:
The home site is ftp.cdrom.com, where the latest distribution
can be found in /pub/linux/slackware.
Ordering:
FTP only, although various independent distributors provide it
on disk, floppy, and CD.
Entry last modified:
14 Dec 1994
2.2. MCC Interim Linux
The current MCC-Interim release is based on Linux 1.0 with a few
patches. . If you are one of those people who demands to be on top of
the current release, this release isn't for you. However, if you're
looking for a small and stable Linux system, this makes a good
starting point.
Distributor:
Dr. A. V. Le Blanc, LeBlanc@mcc.ac.uk.
Description:
Base Linux installation. Complete sources and patches for all
included software are available. Full details vary from release
to release; see /pub/linux/mcc-interim/*/Acknowledgements at
ftp.mcc.ac.uk. Roughly: this includes the kernel (with source),
C, C++, groff, man pages, basic utilities, networking. The
binaries fit on 6 or 7 floppies. It is also possible to have
them on a DOS or Linux partition on a hard drive (plus one
floppy) or on an NFS-mountable partition (plus two floppies).
New versions appear at 2-3 month intervals, depending on various
factors.
Availability:
By anonymous ftp from ftp.mcc.ac.uk; mirrored at tsx-11.mit.edu,
nic.funet.fi, sunsite.unc.edu, and elsewhere. At ftp.mcc.ac.uk,
in /pub/linux/mcc-interim.
Miscellaneous:
Suggestions and contributions are welcome.
Entry last modified:
14 Dec 1994
2.3. TAMU Linux Distribution
Distributor:
Dave Safford, Texas A&M University, dave.safford@net.tamu.edu.
Description:
TAMU.99p12+ is the latest release in the TAMU linux series.
Unlike previous releases, this one includes both integrated
source and binary sets, with the entire binary set created from
a single top level source make. This ensures that all programs
are compiled and linked with the same current tools and
libraries, and guarantees availability of working source for
every program in the binary set. In addition, the new boot
diskette fully automates the installation process, including
partitioning, lilo bootstrapping, and network configuration.
Installation requires no rebooting, and requires the user to
know only the host's name and IP address. At every step of
installation, the program provides intelligent defaults, making
it a snap for novices, while allowing experts full flexibility
in setting installation parameters. Reliability has been
improved over past TAMU installation by the use of labels on all
disk images, so that the program can detect and recover from bad
or misordered diskettes.
This release is a full featured package, including XFree86-1.3,
emacs-19.18, net-2, bootutils, and sources for all installation
programs (without any use restrictions :-).
Availability:
The latest TAMU release is available by anonymous ftp from
net.tamu.edu:pub/linux.
Entry last modified:
31 Oct 1993.
2.4. The BOGUS Linux Release
Distributor:
The BOGUS Group, linux-bogus@cs.unc.edu
Description:
BOGUS is an unsupported, ftp-able distribution targeted at
competent Linux hackers who want a stable development system.
If you do not have experience developing, installing, and
maintaining a Linux system, BOGUS is probably not for you.
BOGUS is a "bootstrapping" release: all of the patches needed to
compile the complete system are provided, including explicit
instructions on how we did the compilation. Indeed, the final
build was totally automatic, and required the user to invoke a
single command.
BOGUS has many other features, but the inclusion of pristine
source, detailed patches, and a utility to support automatic
patch application and compilation is the most important feature
of BOGUS. For more information and a complete list of features,
license restrictions, and other details, please see the
Announce-BOGUS-* files at the ftp sites.
Availability:
The following sites are official mirror sites for the BOGUS
release:
o ftp.cdrom.com:/pub/bogus
o ftp.gwdg.de:/pub/linux/bogus
o ftp.cps.cmich.edu:/pub/linux/packages/bogus
o ftp.nvg.unit.no:/pub/linux/bogus
o ftp.thepoint.com:/pub/linux/BOGUS
o ftp.ibp.fr:/pub/linux/distributions/bogus
o sunsite.unc.edu:/pub/Linux/distributions/bogus
Ordering:
BOGUS 1.0.1 is also available on the Trans-Ameritech Systems
"Linux Plus BSD CD-ROM" (Fall Supplement 2, November 1994) for
$19.95. Trans-Ameritech may be contacted at: 408.727.3883
(voice), 408.727.3882 (fax), or order@trans-am.com.
Miscellaneous:
To join the BOGUS mailing list, send mail to
"majordomo@cs.unc.edu" with "subscribe linux-bogus" in the body
of the message (i.e., *NOT* in the subject). When you do this,
make sure that you have a valid return address -- many people
who set up a mailer for the first time have a return address
which looks like joe@pizza instead of joe@pizza.cs.unc.edu. If
you interact with the majordomo server successfully, you will
receive mail. If you don't receive mail in about an hour,
please don't continue to use the majordomo server as test bed.
Please note that the BOGUS release is COMPLETELY UNSUPPORTED:
mail sent to the mailing list may not be answered, bugs may not
be fixed, and it may be quite a while before there is another
BOGUS release.
Entry last modified:
14 Dec 1994.
2.5. Linux Support Team Erlangen Distribution (LST)
Distributor:
The Linux Support Team Erlangen, a small group of students at
the University of Erlangen-Nuernberg. Contact Stefan Probst
(snprobst@cip.informatik.uni-erlangen.de) or Ralf Flaxa
(rfflaxa@informatik.uni-erlangen.de). Probably, there will be a
collective address soon.
Description:
The LST distribution's goal is to provide a solid, reliable,
easy to install (even for beginners) and well-documented system.
We are not hunting for the newest kernel or gcc versions. We do
updates when they are necessary or provide really new
functionality, are well tested, integrated in the system and
working smoothly with the rest of the system. The distribution
consists of a base system and additional packages. Currently the
following packages are available: doku (doc), text, tex,
develop, xdevelop, xbasis, xappl, xemacs, tinyx, network,
grafik, src, misc.
The complete system is 50 HD disks and 1500 pages printed
documentation including the LDP guides (IGS,KHG,NAG), HOWTOs,
FAQs, the german Linuxhandbuch, install-guide and many other
useful documents we collected over the time.
Our distribution is preconfigured for german users and comes
with a 50 page step by step installation guide that leads you
through the menu-driven installation scripts (both in german).
We started this distribution to help newcomers with their first
steps into Linux. Therefore our scripts are smart enough to
handle all of the ``dirty work'' like setting up system
configuraton (including LILO, modem, mouse, mounts, mtools,
access to DOS, users, X11) and network configuration (TCP/IP,
Routing, Mail, News, UUCP, SLIP).
Historically (and of course easier for us) most of the
documentation for this distribution is written in german, sorry,
but we are planning to translate those documents in english, but
at the moment we don't have time for this. Any volunteers are
welcome!
Our scripts also accept to install SLS and Slackware packages,
but with no warranty if they work well together with the rest of
the system.
Availability:
Via anonymous ftp: ftp.uni-erlangen.de under
pub/Linux/LST.Distribution, or on 3.5" disks (also on one QIC-80
tape).
Ordering:
order at following adress: Stefan Probst, In der Reuth 200,
91056 Erlangen, Germany.
o complete documentation (IGS, LHB, KHG, GDB, NAG, HOWTOs, FAQs,
Installguide) together over 1500 pages for DM 139,-- (plus
shipping).
o complete documentation plus complete distribution on QIC-80 tape
(about 65 MB) for DM 199,-- (including shipping in Germany).
o complete documentation plus complete distribution on about 50
3.5" disks for DM 269,-- (including shipping in Germany).
Entry last modified:
21 Dec 1993.
2.6. S.u.S.E. GmbH German Linux CD-ROM
Distributor:
S.u.S.E. GmbH
Gebhardtstr. 2
90762 Fuerth
Germany
Description:
This is a CD especially for German users. It contains a german
version of the Slackware Distribution and two additional german
distributions based on Slackware and SLS. It contains
additional software, such as the Postgres system, the pbm-Tools
and lots of other tools and utilities (ctwm window manager,
GREAT environment, andrew toolkit, the POV-ray raytracer and so
on). The source code of the complete system is included, too,
as is a live system to enable using software without the need to
install everything to the harddrive. The current version of the
CD contains version 1.2.0 of the Slackware distribution
containing version 1.0 of the linux kernel, version 2.5.8 of the
GNU-Compiler and XFree86tm 2.1.
A german installation guide will help new users to successfully
install the system.
The CD ist updated every three months, so the next one will be
released in July 1994.
Ordering:
You can order by mail, by phone (49-911-74053-31), by Fax
(49-911-7417755) or by sending email to bestellung@suse.de.
Price: The price for a single CD is 89,-- DM for new customers.
If you are already a S.u.S.E.-customer, you will get the CD for
an update-price of 78,-- DM. There is also the posibility to
subscribe for one year; then you will receive 4 CDs for the
price of 230,-- DM.
Disks: Of course, you can get the german version of the
Slackware Distribution on 3,5" disks. You can get either a basis
version of the distribution (about 28 disks) for 89,-- DM, the
"standard" version (about 38 disks) for 119,-- DM or the "full"
version (about 59 disks) for 159,-- DM. The update prices are
69,-- DM, 94,-- DM and 139,-- DM respectively.
Documentation: S.u.S.E. is selling high-quality printed issues
of the books from the Linux Documentation project (LDP) for
people that would like to have a real book and not only printed
loose papers. The prices are 24,-- DM for Matt Welsh's Linux
Installation and Getting Started, 39,-- DM for Olaf Kirch's
Network Administrators' Guide and 29,-- DM for Michael K.
Johnson's Kernel Hackers' guide. Additionally, S.u.S.E. offers
the complete O'Reilly series which is the best documentation
available for Unix in general. Of course you can order the well
known german Linux books: Deutsches Anwenderhandbuch for 49,--
DM and Linux - vom PC zur Workstation for 38,-- DM.
Motif: Metrolink Motif for Linux is available for the price of
169,-- DM for the runtime system only and for the price of
288,-- DM you will get the runtime and development system.
Miscellaneous:
Service and support for our customers by Email, Fax, snail mail
and phone (hotline Monday and Thursday from 13:00h-17:00h.)
Free info material and catalogues of CDROMs and books. (All
Infomagic Unix CDs available).
Selling commercial software for Linux.
Development of individual software for Linux and other Unix
systems.
Almost anything concerning Linux - just ask!
Entry last modified:
23 May 1994
2.7. Debian Linux Distribution
Distributor:
Ian A. Murdock, imurdock@gnu.ai.mit.edu.
Description:
For those of you who are not familiar with Debian, it is an
effort to create a well thought-out, powerful, flexible yet
complete Linux distribution. The motivations behind Debian are
detailed in the Debian Manifesto, a copy of which can be
acquired as described below.
For up-to-date information, please look at the files in the
directory /pub/Linux/distributions/debian/info at
sunsite.unc.edu. If you do not have access to the Internet or
FTP, you may obtain printed copies by sending a self-addressed,
stamped envelope to:
The Debian Linux Association
Station 11
P.O. Box 3121
West Lafayette, IN 47906
USA
This information includes how Debian can be obtained (via FTP or
mail-order), why Debian is being constructed (the Manifesto) and
other general information (including how to join the Debian mailing
lists).
Availability:
Debian has not yet been "officially" released, but BETA releases
are available to the general public at sunsite.unc.edu in the
directory /pub/Linux/distributions/debian.
Entry last modified:
21 Feb 1994.
2.8. Yggdrasil Plug-and-Play Linux CD-ROM and the Linux Bible
Distributor:
Yggdrasil Computing, Incorporated
4880 Stevens Creek Blvd., Suite 205
San Jose, CA 95129-1034
toll free (800) 261-6630, (408) 261-6630, fax (408) 261-6631
info@yggdrasil.com
Description:
Yggdrasil Plug-and-Play Linux is a complete CD-ROM distribution
of the Linux operating system. It includes a great deal of
software---nearly every package that you would expect to find on
a complete UNIX system is available. A complete file list is
available via FTP from yggdrasil.com.
The Linux Bible is a compendium of Linux documentation,
including 3 books from the Linux Documentation Project, The
Yggdrasil installation manual, and the complete set of Linux
HOWTO guides.
At the top of the sophistication hierarchy, programmers who want
to explore or add the occasional feature know that Yggdrasil is
the Linux distribution with a fully buildable source tree and
with the ability to automatically trace installed files back to
their sources.
Users who want maximum performance will appreciate that the
major system components have been recompiled with -O6
optimization, and the SCSI clustering which reduces the build
time on the source tree from 28 to 22 hours (over 20%) on
486DX2-66. Using IDE? Activate the multisector IDE code!
Everybody, especially new users, will appreciate the Plug-and-
Play operation for which Yggdrasil's product is named. Put the
media in a computer with supported hardware, turn the computer
on, and it's running everything, straight from the CDROM.
The login screen lists a number of preconfigured user names,
including "install", which installs the system, giving
paragraphs of explanation about every question that it asks the
user. The install script even searches for a modem, and, upon
finding it, configures mail and UUCP so that mail sent to an
internet address is transparently delivered through a bulletin
board system at Yggdrasil.
X windows configuration is automated too, prompting the user for
configuration information the first time xinit is run.
From X windows, a graphical control panel allows simple ``fill
in the blanks'' configuration of networking, SLIP, outgoing
UUCP, the printer, NNTP, and many other features that previously
required the knowledge of a system administrator to configure.
For more information, send mail to info@yggdrasil.com, FTP to
yggdrasil.com, or contact us by any convenient method.
Ordering:
Plug-and-Play Linux costs $39.95 is and available directly from
Yggdrasil or from your local computer, software or technical
book store. If Plug-and-Play Linux is not available from your
favorite reseller, help promote Linux by making it your mission
to change that. Give your reseller our phone number and demand
that they carry Plug-and-Play Linux.
Yggdrasil offers a $10 discount for upgrades or crossgrades.
Send us your old Yggdrasil release and a check for $29.95 + $5
shipping and handling to upgrade. Or do the same, but send us a
competing distribution such any version of SCO, Esix, minix, or
one of the CD's with the slackware floppy images, and tell us
where you got it, so that we can make sure that your favorite
reseller carries our products too.
Miscellaneous:
Yggdrasil also sells OSF/Motif and The Linux Bible, a
compilation of works from the Linux Documentation project. In
addition to a copy of the Plug-and-Play Linux manual, The Linux
Bible includes Linux Installation and Getting Started, Network
Administrator's Guide, Kernel Hacker's Guide, and HOWTO guides
on hardware compatibility, distributions, dos emulation,
ethernet, floppy tape, installation, mail, networking version 2,
MGR (an alternative to X windows), X windows, usenet news,
printing, SCSI, serial communications, sound, and UUCP. The
Linux Bible costs $39.95 and is printed on recycled paper. $1
from every copy sold is donated to the Linux Documentation
Project. OSF/Motif costs $149.95, $5 of which is donated to the
development of a free Motif clone.
Entry last modified:
16 May 1994
2.9. Linux from Nascent CD-ROM
Distributor:
Nascent Technology
Description:
The Linux from Nascent CDROM is a new distribution of the Linux
operating system which includes over 400 mbytes of source code,
binaries, and documentation for Linux and applications. It
features automated root, swap, package, network, and user
account installation from CDROM. Linux can be can be run
directly from the CDROM and floppy. The Nascent CDROM features
Xwindows, Openlook, TeX, GNU compiler and utilities, Magic and
Spice electronic design tools, and over 100 high resolution
images translated from Kodak PhotoCD(TM). Each source archive
is distributed with an associated notes file to allow you to
browse and install applications using a consistent interface.
A listing of the contents of the Nascent CDROM as well as a
current copy of the CDROM announcement and order form may be
obtained via anonymous ftp at netcom.com:/pub/nascent.
Ordering:
The Linux from Nascent CDROM, Version 1.0, is only $39.95 plus
shipping and handling. Nascent also offers the Linux from
Nascent Plus package for only $89.95, which includes six months
of email support and a 30 discount off a future release of the
CDROM with your CDROM purchase. Nascent accepts Mastercard,
VISA, checks, and money orders as payment.
To order your Linux from Nascent CDROM, mail, email or fax a
completed order form to:
Nascent Technology
Linux from Nascent CDROM
P.O. Box 60669
Sunnyvale CA 94088-0669 USA
Tel: (408) 737-9500
Fax: (408) 241-9390
Email: nascent@netcom.com
Entry last modified:
28 Nov 1993.
2.10. Red Hat Software Linux CD-ROM
Distributor:
Red Hat Software, info@redhat.com
Description:
RHS Linux contains over 650Mb of binaries and source code and
comes with a manual that covers the installation process and the
RHS Linux system administration tools. In addition the manual
contains the entire Linux Installation and Getting Started book
by Matt Welsh, and Ian Jackson's Linux FAQ. Included with the
purchase of RHS Linux is 30 days of free installation support,
and a card for a complimentary copy of the Linux Journal. More
details are available from our FTP site.
Availibility:
Available directly from Red Hat Software and most distributors
of Linux related products.
Ordering:
Please contact Red Hat Software for ordering details. (see
contact info below). Suggested retail price is $49.95.
Miscellaneous:
Red Hat Software
PO Box 4325
Chapel Hill, NC 27515
(919) 309-9560
Entry last modified:
13 Dec 1994.
2.11. Unifix 1.02 CD-ROM
Distributor:
Unifix Software GmbH, Braunschweig, Germany
Description:
This is a Linux CD-ROM distribution with emphasis on easy and
fast installation. Though it is possible to install everything
on the harddisk, we do not recommend so, because it runs fast
enough directly from CD. For example starting emacs the first
time (in text mode) takes:
From single speed Mitsumi: 24 s
From double speed Mitsumi: 11 s
From Toshiba 3401: 7 s
The dynamic buffer cache of Linux takes care of the second and sub-
sequent times a program is started, which needs less than one sec-
ond.
Our system requires about 5 MB on the hard disk for configuration
files and system management tools. Additionally we recommend a 16
MB swap partition. The distribution contains most of the standard
programs in current versions, e.g. Linux 0.99.15e, XFree 2.0, emacs
19.22 and gcc 2.5.7. Full preconfigured source for everything is
included.
Because Unifix is a european distribution it provides full support
for iso8859-1 character sets. From the shells and emacs through ls,
TeX and the print system everything supports 8-bit characters.
Printing is supported through System V compatible printer drivers
which can be controlled through lp's -o options. Printer drivers
are included for dumb text mode printers, for postscript- or
ghostscript- compatible printers and for networked printing. These
drivers know how to guess the type of the files so e.g. compressed
man pages or DVI files can be printed directly.
Ordering:
Unifix is available only on CD. It comes in a Unifix/Linux
binder with two boot floppies and about 70 pages of installation
instructions in german. An english version will be available Apr
94. The price is 159 DM (about $100) and includes taxes and
shipping; Eurocard/Mastercard/Visa are accepted.
Telephone +49 (0)531 515161
Fax +49 (0)531 515162
Mail Unifix Software GmbH
Postfach 4918
D-38039 Braunschweig
Germany
Entry last modified:
18 Feb 1994.
3. Redistributors and Miscellany
This section lists re-sellers or re-distributors of the Linux
distributions listed above. In other words, the people selling the
below software more than likely do NOT maintain or support the
software itself.
This section also lists distributors selling commercial software for
Linux (such as Motif) and miscellany, such as documentation.
3.1. Clark Internet Services
Distributor:
Clark Internet Services, C/O Stephen Balbach
Description:
The latest version of Linux on disk and tape direct from the net
at affordable prices. 120MB installed on 3.5" disks. 90MB
installed on 5.25" disks.
Ordering:
Slackware on 32 3.5" disks: $50 (USPS 2nd day). SLS on 32 5.25"
disks: $40 (USPS 2nd day).
Installation and Getting Started (c) Copyright Matt Welsh.
150+page laser printed, professional bound manual. Everything
to get installed and running in one easy book. $15 if ordering
set (at cost price!). $20 seperate.
Availability:
For more complete information, including a multipage description
of Linux, a hardware compatibility sheet, and more detailed
package descriptions send mail to linux-all@clark.net for auto-
reply info (30k of text).
Ordering:
Check, money-order
Stephen Balbach
5437 Enberend Terrace
Columbia, MD 21045
Credit Card orders call 410-740-1157 (Visa, MasterCard, AmXpres)
Entry last modified:
31 Oct 1993.
3.2. Extent Verlag, LDP Distribution
Distributor:
Extent Verlag Berlin, Germany
Description:
Extent has published the Linux Installation and Getting Started
manual, Version 2.0 by Matt Welsh in order to make it available
to Linux users within Germany and Europe. Inspite of being non-
commercial, the manual was printed with 2540 dpi and bound in
soft cover. It's handy paperback format is 148 x 210 mm. Other
LDP manuals are being prepared as soon as possible.
Extent also tries to make SLACKWARE available to everybody
within Germany and Europe just for the ordinary diskette price.
This means, you pay only the diskettes and get the newest
SLACKWARE distribution for free, just in the sense of Free
Software. The 3.5" diskettes are fully error-checked, of course.
Availability:
Extent Verlag Berlin, Postfach 12 66 48, D-10594 Berlin,
Germany. phone +49 30 3244021, fax +49 30 3249685.
Ordering:
Linux Installation and Getting Started, 192 pages. ISBN
3-926671-12-2. Costs within Germany DM 15.80 (tax and shipping
included), within Europe DM 16.50 (shipping included).
Full Slackware (latest version) on 50 diskettes. Within Germany,
DM 100.00 plus DM 10.00 for shipping. Within Europe, DM 100.00
plus DM 20.00 for shipping.
Ordering by sending cheque to address above or money order
(don't forget your address!) to Extent Verlag Berlin, Germany
Postbank Berlin, BLZ 10010010, bank account 1769-104 or every
book store.
Entry last modified:
25 March 1994.
3.3. Fintronic Linux Systems
Distributor:
Fintronic Linux Systems
Description:
We sell fully installed, custom configured Linux systems for
about the price which you'd pay for the hardware alone. We
offer desktop and notebook machines. We ship worldwide and
accept payment by check and credit cards. If you have
any questions or would like to be added to our mailing list,
send mail to linux@fintronic.com.
Availability:
For our latest pricelist, finger linux@fintronic.com or Web
to http://www.fintronic.com/linux/catalog.html. Prices change
frequently as we are constantly looking for the best deals
for our customers.
Ordering:
email: linux@fintronic.com
fax: +1.415.325-4908
voice: +1.415.325-4474
Mail: Fintronic USA, Inc.
1360 Willow Rd., Suite 205
Menlo Park, CA 94025
USA
Entry last modified:
24 Mar 1994.
3.4. InfoMagic Developer's Resource CD-ROM kit
Distributor:
InfoMagic, Inc.
Description:
The InfoMagic Linux Developer's Resource is a complete snapshot
of the sunsite.unc.edu and tsx-11.mit.edu archives. It also
includes the complete GNU software collection (in source form).
The following Linux ``distributions'' are included on the discs:
Slackware, Bogus, Debian, SLS, TAMU, MCC, and JE (Japanese
Extensions).
The Slackware distribution has been completely unpacked allowing
many packages to be run directly from the disc. Sources for all
the packages in Slackware are also included.
The Linux HOWTO documents have been formatted for use with the
Microsoft Multimedia Viewer (which is included) to allow
browsing and full-text search under Microsoft Windows.
InfoMagic also distributes the "Installation and Getting Started
Guide", by Matt Welsh as well as Linux T-Shirts.
Availability:
InfoMagic, Inc.
PO Box 30370
Flagstaff, AZ 86003-0370
Tel: 800-800-6613 (within the US)/602-683-9565
Fax: 602-526-9573
email: Orders@InfoMagic.com
Ordering:
The 3-CD set is $25/copy. Shipping within the US is $5 (USPS
Priority Mail), outside the US $10 (International Airmail),
FedEx and UPS on request. Orders may be placed via phone, fax,
or email (a PGP key is available: finger orders@InfoMagic.com).
We accept Visa, Mastercard, and AMEX. 1-year subscriptions are
available for $150 (within the US) and $175 (outside the US)
including shipping. A 1yr subscription consists of 6 releases,
one every two months.
Miscellaneous:
The contents of the CD's may be found at either:
InfoMagic.com:/pub/Linux, ftp.uu.net:/vendor/InfoMagic/cd-
roms/linux, or on http://www.infomagic.com.
This 3-CD set is updated every two months. Please call for
latest info on contents, availability and pricing.
Entry last modifiied:
11 Jan 1995.
3.5. Lasermoon Ltd.
Distributor:
Lasermoon Ltd., info@lasermoon.co.uk, support@lasermoon.co.uk.
Description: We are specialists in UNIXLinux Freeware and stock
products from : Infomagic, PrimeTime Freeware, Yggdrasil, Linux
Journal, SSC, O'Reilly Associates, Addison Wedsley, SWiM (Motif)
1.2.3 & 1.2.4, Morse Telecommunications (Slackware Pro), VITAL
(Crisp Editor), BASMARK (Language Products), Systek s.r.l
(Application Builders), VERSASOFT (dBMAN), LINUX BIBLE and
reference works. We are the sole UK/European/USA distributors
for some of the above.
If you dont see what you want, please call us!
We provide free technical support for the above products which
are compeditively priced.
Dealers : Please contact us! We are looking for dealers in
Europe and Aisa.
Availability:
CD-ROM, floppy disk and other media. ftp access for some
products (ie SWiM)
Ordering:
We are pleased to accept : VISA, ACCESS, MASTERCARD, EuroCARD,
Euro Cheque/Cheque/money order drawn on a UK bank in Pounds
Sterling, Cash - (in desperation) Pounds Sterling (please send
by recorded delivery).
Lasermoon Ltd
2a Beaconsfield Road
Fareham
Hants
England, PO16 0QB
Entry last modified:
14 Dec 1994.
3.6. Linux Journal
Publisher:
Linux Journal, P.O. Box 85867, Seattle, WA 98145-1867. Phone
(206) 782-7753 (206-PUBS-REF), FAX 206-782-7191.
Description:
Linux Journal is a monthly publication covering the Linux
Community. Most material in LJ is new (not reprinted from
Usenet). Each issue includes columns and articles on Linux
programming, Free Software Foundation issues, systems
administration, Questions and Answers, interviews and more. LJ
is a professional-quality magazine for the Linux community.
Michael K. Johnson is the editor of Linux Journal.
Availability:
Subscriptions are $19/year (US), $24/year (Canada/Mexico),
$29/year (elsewhere).
Ordering:
Payment can be made using VISA, MasterCard or American Express
(make sure you include the credit card number, expiration date
and signature). We can also accept checks in US $ on US banks.
If you have a question concerning appropriate method of payment,
phone or FAX our subscription numbers or send e-mail to
subs@ssc.com For security reasons we discourage sending credit
card numbers via e-mail.
Miscellaneous:
If you are interested in advertising in LJ, call, write or e-
mail at linux@ssc.com. Article queries, new product
announcements and other editorial material should be sent to our
address above or e-mailed to ljeditor@sunsite.unc.edu. Generic
questions can be sent to linux@fylz.com.
Entry last modified:
11 Jan 1995.
3.7. The Linux Quarterly CD-ROM
Distributor:
Morse Telecommunication, Inc.
Description:
The Linux Quarterly CDROM contains the complete contents of
tsx-11.mit.edu, the one of the most popular Internet Linux sites
which provides both source and binaries of major Linux
distributions, utilities, source code and documentation. This
includes Slackware, SLS, MCC and Debian releases of Linux.
Additionally, beginning with the Spring 1994 edition, the
complete contents of prep.ai.mit.edu, the repository of the
FSF's GNU source archives, is included. For first-time users,
this CDROM contains a Microsoft Windows(tm) front-end to assist
the user in creating boot disks that can be used to install
Linux directly from The Linux Quarterly CDROM. Support for the
UMSDOS filesystem is now also This gives the user the ability to
install Linux directly to an MSDOS system without having to
repartion their hard drive. Ninety days of technical support is
provided with each disc at no additional charge.
Availability:
Morse Telecommunication, Inc.
26 East Park Avenue, Suite 240
Long Beach, NY 11561
Orders: (800) 60-MORSE
Tech Support: (516) 889-8610
Fax: (516) 889-8665
Email Orders: Order@morse.net
Email info: Linux@morse.net
Hours: 9AM - 5PM EST, Monday through Friday. Fax available 24
hours.
Ordering:
Orders may be placed via phone, fax or email as listed above.
The Linux Quarterly CDROM is priced at $29.95 plus $5 shipping
and handling per order. Existing customers may upgrade for
$22.95 plush S/H. All orders generally ship the same day if
received by 4PM EST.
Miscellaneous:
The contents of the CDROM, the cover artwork in JPEG format, and
the text of the USENET announcement can be found on the
following FTP sites:
tsx-11.mit.edu:/pub/linux/advertisements/TLQ-Spring94.tar.z
sunsite.unc.edu:/pub/Linux/distributions/cdrom/TLQ-Spring94.tar.z
Entry last modified:
23 May 1994
3.8. Linux Systems Labs
Distributor:
Linux Systems Labs, info@lsl.com
Description:
Slackware (all 50 disks and I&GS) for $69.95 (updated weekly),
resell the Yggdrasil CDROM and bundle the latest version of
Slackware with Motif (version1.2.4) for $215.00 (Motif alone for
$175.00). We currently print LDP documents duplex on a 600 DPI
laser printer. We publish Dr. Linux, an impressive compendium
(1170 pages) of the Linux Documentation Project for $49.95 and
include a free CD with purchase. A free CD also comes with our
other book, Linux: Getting Started (550 pages), which sells for
$29.95.
Our newest product is Just Logic SQL Database Manager. It is an
interactive multiuser SQL server+client for Linux. It also
includes C++ class descriptions and API for interfacing with C
and C++.
Availability:
Linux Systems Labs, 18300 Tara Drive, Clinton Twp MI 48036.
Phone (313)954-2829, (800)432-0556, fax (313)954-2806.
Ordering:
See above for prices. We take MasterCard, Visa and American
Express and will discount all products (except SQL) 20% for
internet customers.
Entry last modified:
9 Feb 1995.
3.9. Sequoia International Motif Development Package
Distributor:
Sequoia International, Inc., 600 West Hillsboro Blvd, Suite 300,
Deerfield Beach, FL 33441, Tel: (305) 480-6118, FAX: (305)
480-6198, info@seq.com
Description:
Sequoia International, Inc. has a complete Motif 1.2.3 Runtime
and Development package called SWiM 1.2.3 available for $149.95.
In addition to providing shared library versions of libXm and
libMrm, the following is included in each package: The Window
Manager (mwm), Shared Libraries (libXm, libMrm), Static
Libraries (libXm, libMrm, libUil), UIL Compiler, Header and
Include Files, Complete On-Line Manual Pages, Source Code to
OSF/Motif Demo Programs, Complete OSF/Motif Users Guide.
Requirements:
Linux 0.99pl13 or higher, libc 4.4.4, XFree 2.0, 12M Free Disk,
8-12M RAM Suggested.
Ordering:
USA: Sequoia International, Inc. (305-480-6118), info@seq.com.
Japan: Fortune Co., Ltd (03-5481-8974). England: Lasermoon Ltd.
(+44-0-329-826444). Australia: Space Age Import-Export
Proprietary (61-7-266-3418).
Entry last modified:
24 March 1994.
3.10. Discount Linux
Distributor:
Spheric Microsystems, Inc., info@spheric.com.
Description:
Spheric has the Linux distribution to fit your tastes, at
discount prices. Here's just a sample, call for latest versions
or a catalog:
Slackware Pro 2.0
retail $49.95, only $34.95. (Also available in floppy)
Yggdrasil Plug and Play Fall '94
retail $49.95, only $29.95
InfoMagic Archives
October 1994, kernel 1.1.50, Doom, retail $20.00, only $17.95
Linux Installation & Getting Started Guide
2.1, retail $14.95, only $9.95
Linux Bible - The GNU Testament
retail $49.95, only $39.95
Unix in a Nutshell, O'Reilly reference book
retail $9.95, only $8.95
Unix PowerTools, best tips and tricks
with CD, retail $59.95, only $44.95
The Whole Internet User's Guide
2nd Edition, retail $24.95, only $19.95
Source Code CDROM
many from source news groups, retail $39.95, only $24.95
C User's Group CD, volume 100-411
retail $49.95, only $29.95
Ordering:
Visa, MasterCard, American Express, check, money-orders accepted.
Call 1-800-869-8649, 9am-9pm Eastern.
NYS Residents add local sales tax.
$5 shipping per order.
Miscellaneous:
Spheric has been distributing Linux since 1992 (back when a few
floppies made a great distribution :^). Commercial Linux
software, general UNIX books, and CD-ROM subscription plans also
available.
Entry last modified:
14 December 1994.
3.11. Spire Technologies Inc.
Distributor:
Spire Technologies, info@spiretech.com
Description:
Spire is a complete solution provider for Linux offering
Networking, Custom systems, Consulting, Technical Support, and
Distribution.
Our current services are consulting services, complete custom
systems, networks and we offer the Linux Bible and the Info-
Magic and Yggdrasil cdroms. We will soon have anonymous ftp
available at ftp.spiretech.com (Feb 1995) and will be providing
subscription internet access (Jan/Feb 1995).
Ordering:
You can reach Spire Technologies at info@spiretech.com or:
Spire Technologies
1439 SW Columbia
Portland, Or 97201
(503)222-3086
(503)222-5102 FAX
Entry last modified:
11 Jan 1994.
3.12. SSC Books and Linux Documentation Project Manuals
Distributor:
SSC, Inc., sales@ssc.com.
Availability:
SSC has printed the Linux Installation and Getting Started
manual, Version 2.2.1 to make it available for those who do not
have the capability to print it themself and to support our
customers who buy Linux distributions from us. The book is
perfect-bound with a 2-color cover. SSC has also published the
Network Administrator's Guide from the LDP and will soon publish
the Kernel Hacker's Guide. In addition, SSC has published The
Linux Sampler, a book which includes new material plus articles
from back issues of Linux Journal. Other products include Linux
T-shirts, mouse pads and bumper stickers.
Ordering:
Linux Installation and Getting Started, Version 2.1 is available
for $12.95 plus shipping ($3 in the U.S.). The Linux Network
Administrator's Guide and The Linux Sampler are $18.95 each plus
shipping. Finger bookshelf@ssc.com for information on these and
other Linux books that we will make available. We can accept
credit card orders (Visa, MasterCard or AmEx). Orders can be
phoned in to 206-782-7191 (206-PUBS-REF) or faxed to
206-782-7191. Or mail orders to SSC, P.O. Box 55549, Seattle,
WA 98155.
Miscellaneous:
SSC also publishes a series of reference cards on Unix and Unix-
related programs such as Emacs, VI, Korn Shell, C language, etc.
SSC also sells the InfoMagic, Yggdrasil and Trans Ameritech
distributions, Free Software Foundation books and a complete
Linux package consisting of Linux Instllation and Getting
Started, a Linux distribution on CD, 4 SSC Pocket References and
a 1-year subscription to Linux Journal for $64.95. Call or e-
mail sales@ssc.com for a free catalog.
Entry last modified:
11 Jan 1995.
3.13. Takelap Systems Ltd.
Distributor:
Takelap Systems Ltd., info@ddrive.demon.co.uk.
Description:
The SLS 1.04 distribution on diskettes. 25 3.5" or 30 5.25"
diskettes including 0.99.13 kernel, X11R5, TeX, doc (WYSIWYG),
GNU s/w development tools and more.
The SLS 1.04 Linux Distribution on CDROM: 0.99.13 kernel, X11R5,
TeX, Andrew, GNU s/w development tools. May be installed and
optionally run from CDROM mounted remotely. Many installation
and operational options.
The Yggdrasil LGX Fall 93 Linux distribution on CDROM: 0.99.13
kernel, X11R5, TeX, Andrew 5.1, Postgres 4.1, GNU s/w
development tools.
Availability:
Takelap Systems Ltd., The Reddings, Court Robin Lane, Llangwm,
Usk, Gwent, United Kingdom NP5 1ET. tel: +44 (0)291 650357,
fax: +44 (0)291 650500, email: info@ddrive.demon.co.uk.
Ordering:
SLS on Diskettes, price ukp42.00 +ukp1.50 p&p + VAT. SLS CD-ROM,
ukp66.00 +ukp1.50 p&p + VAT. Yggdrasil LGX CD-ROM, ukp40.00
+ukp1.50 p&p + VAT. Visa and Mastercard accepted.
Miscellaneous:
Free catalogue of CDROMs and books (mostly UNIX related) on
request.
Entry last modified:
31 Oct 93.
3.14. Trans-Ameritech Linux plus BSD CD-ROM
Distributor:
Trans-Ameritech corporation.
Description:
Trans-Ameritech has published 6 releases of Linux by the end of
94. CD-ROM based on the Slackware distribution of Linux with
all the sources plus full uncompressed filesystem plus NetBSD
source and binary distribution. The current full release is
Release 4 and a Supplement 2 is also available with updates and
additional software. The previous releases cover Linux from
0.99 p.9 (on the SLS release) to the current versions and have
FreeBSD, NetBSD and the original 386BSD.
o The installation is highly automated by the Slackware scripts
fine tuned to this CDROM but leaves a lot of room for
customization. New Linux users will appreciate the DOS based
menu driven program that helps to select and prepare the right
boot floppy.
o To minimize the possibility of hardware conflicts many extra
kernels are provided for different configurations. They are
usable for installation and normal operation.
o Many on-line documents are provided for quick reference,
including the Linux Documentation Project files in source, dvi
and ps formats.
o A lot of applications are included:
o The C/C++ compiler GNU GCC ,
o GNU and international versions of the ispell spell-checker.
o The communications apps: term, minicom, Seyon (X-Windows based).
o Editors: elvis (vi clone), joe, jove
o PostScript clone ghostscript
o Network package with news and email:
o TCP/IP, UUCP, SLIP, CSLIP
o Object oriented GNU Smalltalk, and the Smalltalk Interface to X.
o TCL/Tk (Powerful scripting language with Motif-like X interface)
o Programs for electric engineers and HAM enthusiasts
o Several window managers - openwin, twm, gwm, fvwm.
o Easy X-Windows configuration with many real-life examples.
o Many X applications
o Interviews libraries, include files, and the doc word processor
and idraw drawing program.
o Typesetting: TeX, LaTeX, xdvi, dvips, Metafont, groff
o Andrew multimedia word processor with hyperlinks.
o Send and receive fax on either class 1 or class 2 fax modems.
o A lot more.
o To help the first time Linux users many documentation files are
provided that are readable from DOS even before installing
Linux.
o All the sources are available on the CDROM. The most often
needed sources are uncompressed and can be used directly from
CDROM.
o An uncompressed Linux filesystem is available for reference and
disk space conservation. You can run programs directly from
CDROM! There is a large info directory for on-line reference and
many manpages.
o For hacker's reference uncompressed 386 BSD sources are
provided.
The latest upgrades and patches are always available through
Trans-Ameritech Linux BBS (408)980-9840. It's free for all
Trans-Ameritech customers.
The Internet price for Linux Supplement CD 2 is $20
The price for our current (Release 4) Linux Plus CD is $30
The price for a package order: Linux Plus CD (Release 4) and
Linux Supplement 2 CD (Trans-Ameritech Linux Package) in one
shipment is - $40
Availability and Ordering:
You can order by e-mail, by phone (408)727-3883 or fax
(408)727-3882. (email: order@Trans-Ameritech.com)
If you prefer to send a cheque/money order, our address is:
Trans-Ameritech Enterprises, Inc.
2342A Walsh Ave
Santa Clara, CA 95051
USA
If you order with a credit card (VISA, MC, American Express) please
indicate the card number, expiration date and your mailing address.
The order will be processed and the CD shipped the same day.
Shipping and handling in US is $5, Canada/Mexico $6, Overseas $8.
COD is available in the US only for $4.50.
California residents please add sales tax.
Annual subscriptions (4 releases) are available for $80 plus S&H.
(note: there are 4 shipments in a subscription) Example
subscription in US is: $80 + $5 x 4 = $100 Subscription in
Europe/Japan etc. is: $80 + $8 x 4 = $112
Miscellaneous:
If you have any further questions, please contact us at the
above address, or (408) 727-3883, FAX (408) 727-3882, or
info@trans-am.com
Entry last modified:
11 Jan 1995.
3.15. Universal CD-ROM
Distributor:
Universal CD-ROM, c/o Charles Liu
Description:
We are the publisher of Linux World Book '95 (Word Book '95 is a
complete Linux reference book) and UCR Linux CD. In addition we
also carry a complete line of Linux distribution such as:
Slackware 2.1, Plug & Play, Walnut Creek CDs, InfoMagic Linux
CDs, etc.
Availability:
You can get the latest price list from:
phone: (408)992-0453
fax: (408)992-0457
email: ucr@bigmall.com
WWW: http://www.bigmall.com
Ordering:
We accept: Visa, MasterCard, Money order and Checks. We ship
worldwide from Silicon valley.
email: sale@bigmall.com
fax: (408)992-0457
voice (408)992-0453
mail: 520 Lawrence Expressway, #307
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
USA
Entry last modified:
16 Mar 1995
3.16. Unifix Custom Linux CD-ROM Mastering
Distributor:
Unifix Software GmbH, Braunschweig, Germany
Description:
We use our own (Linux based) premastering system to make custom
CDs which include the customer's programs in addition to our
Linux distribution. This enables our customers to sell their
Unix based applications together with operating system tested
and ready to run. Our CD recorder makes it possible to create
prototypes and very small series at interesting prices.
Availablility:
Ask us for more information or prices:
Telephone +49 (0)531 515161
Fax +49 (0)531 515162
Mail Unifix Software GmbH
Postfach 4918
D-38039 Braunschweig
Germany
3.17. UPython SLS and Slackware Diskette Labels
Distributor:
UPython Computer and Network Services
Description:
Labels for Softlanding and slackware disks
Availability:
The labels that we print for you are available in several
formats at sunsite.unc.edu:/pub/linux/distributions/SLSlabels.
Ordering:
For order information, send mail to DGray@uh.edu. Cost is $6.50
per set and domestic shipping in included. Overseas orders must
send payment in US funds and add $1 for shipping. Texas
residents add sales tax (6).
Entry last modified:
11 Nov 1993.
3.18. Wizvax Communications
Distributor:
Richard Shetron (multics@acm.rpi.edu) Stephanie Gilgut
(stephie@acm.rpi.edu) Sean Haus (hans@wizvax.com)
Description:
We sell modem and terminal cables for multi-port serial boards
(mainly the Boca Research BB2016, BB1008, BB1004 and the
IOAT66). We also sell multi-port serial boards. We can supply
other products and services, please ask. We are also an
internet provider with dialups and telnet accounts.
Availability:
email: orders@wizvax.wizvax.com (orders only, please)
catalog@wizvax.wizvax.com (automatic response robot)
multics@wizvax.wizvax.com
stephie@wizvax.wizvax.com
hans@wizvax.com
phone: (518) 271-6005 (US) 9am-7pm M-sa.
Fax: (518) 271-6289
Snailmail:
Wizvax Communications
1508 Tibbits Ave.
Troy, NY 12180 USA
Ordering:
Send for a catalog (see addresses above). Send orders to
address's listed above. Payment can be personal/company check,
US Postal Money Order, Money Order, or Bank check. Orders will
not be sent until payment clears. Inquire about PO's.
Miscellaneous:
Wizvax provides an anonymous posting and contact service. email
acs@wizvax.com for help. Wizvax also provides space and
resources for mucks, muds and such, for a fee. Email
hans@wizvax.com regarding this.
4. Submissions to this document
Here's information on how to make submissions to this docuement, and
on the policy that we are using for postings to comp.os.linux.announce
regarding commercial and mail-order announcements.
4.1. comp.os.linux.announce policy
One of the purposes of this document is to present short summaries of
the many Linux distributions in a compact form for new users to browse
over. This document is not merely a concatenation of the various
announcements of Linux distributions and the like.
Another purpose of this document is to remove some of the
`advertisement' traffic from the newsgroup comp.os.linux.announce.
The moderators of c.o.l.a (as well as many of the readers) feel that
those people who are re-distributors of Linux distributions which they
do not maintain should not be allowed to post periodic advertisements
in c.o.l.a.... after all, c.o.l.a is for announcements important to
the Linux community; it is not a moderated sales board.
Therefore, if you are distributing Linux software which you do not
maintain, the only way that you will be allowed to post information to
c.o.l.a is through this HOWTO. Information on submitting entries to
this HOWTO is given below. (To submit a posting for c.o.l.a, mail it
to linux-announce@tc.cornell.edu. Exceptions are given below.
Here's an example. If you are, for example, reselling the SLS
distribution of Linux on floppies via mail order, the first time that
your mail-order service is available, you may post an announcement to
c.o.l.a. Thereafter, you must submit an entry in this HOWTO, which
will be periodically posted to the newsgroup. Only in the event that
you do something dramtically new with your service will you be allowed
to post to c.o.l.a about it. (`Dramatically new' does not include
changing your prices or the versions of the software that you
distribute. The moderators have the final say on just what
consititutes `dramatically new'. :) ) The purpose of this is to reduce
the number of periodic postings from people who are using c.o.l.a as
an electronic billboard.
However, if you maintain and organize your own distribution of Linux
(whether it be available for anonymous FTP, mail order, or both), then
you will be allowed to post to c.o.l.a whenever you release a new
version. You will not be allowed to make periodic postings about your
distribution, in order to `advertise' it every month; only when a new
version is released will you be allowed to post to c.o.l.a about it.
Of course, you should include information on your distribution in this
HOWTO.
Hopefully this policy is not too confusing; the one basic rule is that
we won't permit postings to c.o.l.a which are merely advertisements
for your distribution or mail order service. The posting must include
new information which is of interest to the Linux community at large.
Remember that c.o.l.a postings are archived on sunsite.unc.edu; once
your posting is out of the news spool it is not gone forever.
4.2. How to submit an entry for this HOWTO
I encourage anyone and everyone who maintains a Linux distribution or
mail order service (or consulting service, and the like), to submit
information on their service to this HOWTO. It's easy and fun, and
it's free advertising. This document is posted to many places and is
archived (see the next section).
4.2.1. Types of submissions
We are interested in submissions for:
o Complete distributions of Linux software, available either via
anonymous FTP, UUCP, or mail order. By `complete distribution' we
mean any set of software which can be used to build a complete
Linux system from scratch.
o Layered products or individual software packages available only via
mail order. If your software package is available via anonymous
FTP, chances are people can find it. Software products only
available via mail-order include commercial things such as Motif,
and any other commercial software ported to Linux.
o Any other LINUX-SPECIFIC goods available via mail order, such as
Linux-specific books and documentation, T-shirts, and assorted
paraphrenalia.
o LINUX-SPECIFIC services such as telephone or e-mail consulting and
technical support. This category also includes miscellany such as
development contracts.
If the number of submissions for services and layered products is
large, I'll create a separate HOWTO for these items.
4.2.2. How to submit
To submit an entry to this HOWTO, please send mail to
mdw@sunsite.unc.edu with the following information. This `format' is
not machine-parsable; any of the fields may be any length that you
wish, but I'd like to keep each entry down to, say, 50 lines.
Name:
Name of service or distribution
Distributor:
Name of company, person, etc. who distributes/maintains the
service or distribution
Description:
Description of the distribution or service that you provide. If
this is a software distribution, please include information such
as what software is included, versions, general overview of
installation, requirements, and so on.
Availability:
Where your service or distribution is available. This can be an
FTP site (including directory pathname, please), a mailing
address, phone number, e-mail address, etc.
Ordering:
How to order your distribution or service, if applicable.
Include prices, shipping information, methods of payment, etc.
Miscellaneous:
Anything else that you find relevant.
Please keep your entry as short as possible. If you need to include
extensive information, please make a reference to where one can FTP or
mail to get more information on your distribution; these entries are
only meant to be POINTERS to where one can find information on your
service or distribution.
If you provide more than one service or distribution, please use
SEPARATE ENTRIES for each.
Some things (such as books, t-shirts, etc.) won't fit exactly into
this entry; just be sure to include all relevant information. In other
words, this "entry form" is simply the bare minimum that you must
include in your submission to the Distribution-HOWTO; feel free to
change, add, or leave out "fields" as you see fit.
I will more than likely edit your entries to some degree if I find any
irrelevant information, or if the entry is overly verbose. Otherwise
the content should remain the same.
When making submissions to the Distribution-HOWTO, you grant implicit
permission for me to use the entries in other materials, such as books
from the LDP, and other online documents. For example, information
from the Distribution-HOWTO may be included in a published Linux book.
If you do not want me to include your entry in materials other than
the Distribution-HOWTO, please say so.
4.3. Acknowledgements
Thanks to Bill Riemers, who produced the first version of the
Distribution HOWTO and Matt Welsh who produced the second.. Also,
thanks to all of the people who have contributed to this document. I
hope that future releases of this HOWTO will be useful to the Linux
community; unfortunately, gathering information on the many services
out there is a difficult task. Your contributions make this task much
easier.