[Ham-Linux] RE: Anyone using ...

[Harv Nelson]

Hi Nate

You asked:

>>Why hasn't Linux taken over as the OS of choice for hams?

One my answers to this question has been the advertising  of many of
our suppliers and vendors (including the ARRL).  The ads state that
the "required OS" is some version of Windows ... even when the CD
offered for sale contains nothing more than ".pdf" files or text files
all easily readable with Open Source software.

One of my responces to this situation has been to offer a FREE Linux cd:

http://hamshack-hack.sourceforge.net/

Those of us who are experienced Linux users can make the point more
directly with manufacturers and vendors by requesting that necessary
software be made available for OpenSource systems.  When a competing
product is available that offers Open Source support, make sure you
tell the vendors and MANUFACTURER of the "Windows only" product how
you spent your money, how much money you spent,  and WHY!

If you intend to write your own scripts or programs to run a
particular radio or interface, buy the product from the vendor and
manufacturer who makes his information readily available and
accessable.  Once your program is running share it with the rest of
the community so that we can also contribute to it.

Thanks for the $50/hour - 4 hour minimum ... or, Linux for free ...
suggestion.  I'm going to implement that one here.  I may end up with
fewer friends but, more time for my own projects, and less baby
sitting in the long term.

73

Harv, AI9NL