[Elecraft] LINIX PCs and ham SW?

[Vic K2VCO]

G4ILO wrote:

> So choosing to run Linux in your shack is not a decision to be taken on a
> whim. It needs to be thought through, and part of that consideration should
> be choosing a version that will run whatever software you need. If you ever
> think that you might want to run HRD then forget it - I don't see any
> likelihood that something even approaching its capabilities will ever be
> developed for Linux.

There *is* one thing that might help which I haven't heard mentioned. 
There's something called WINE (which stands for "Wine Is Not an 
Emulator").  WINE translates Windows system functions into Linux 
equivalents so that, sometimes, a Windows program will run under Linux.

I installed WINE under Ubuntu (Hardy version) Linux in a few minutes -- 
it's in the Synaptic Package Manager. No compilation required. I have 
been surprised at how many Windows programs do run successfully under 
WINE and how good performance is. Later today I will try EZNEC and see 
if it will work.

Purists hate the idea because it perpetuates the use of closed source 
programs, and because they retain their Windows interface, etc. But if 
it makes it possible to run essential software that would otherwise keep 
you in Windows, then it's a good thing in my estimation.
-- 
73,
Vic, K2VCO
Fresno CA
http://www.qsl.net/k2vco