>From the Aug. 14 issue of InformationWeek Daily!
** IBM Adds Linux To Thin-Client Computers
IBM, already on the record saying it wants to make Linux available
throughout its products, is outlining steps to make it happen. IBM
will unveil its first thin-client computer with Linux available as
a preinstalled option. Until now, users who wanted to run Linux on
IBM thin clients faced a do-it-yourself project. Now, the
company's N 2200 and N 2800 models will feature Linux out of the
box. "A lot of our customers are looking for a more packaged
solution," says Paul Boulay, NetVista program director in IBM's
Personal Systems Group. The devices will ship with TurboLinux 6.1.
Analysts say demand for Linux on thin clients will be driven in
part by users looking for more operating system options. "There
are a lot of people looking for an alternative to Microsoft," says
Technology Business Research analyst Bob Sutherland, who adds that
Linux's relatively small footprint makes it ideal for thin
clients.
IBM also is expected to begin offering Caldera Systems Inc.'s
version 2.4 of Linux as a factory-installed option this week for
some ThinkPads. Much of IBM's Linux strategy is centered on
creating a technology environment in which Linux can thrive as a
viable alternative to more mainstream operating systems.
With that in mind, IBM is also unveiling support initiatives aimed
at making the software more powerful and user friendly. IBM is
releasing more than 100 new device-specific print drivers for
Linux, which should make it easier for IT managers to deploy it on
file-and-print servers. And the company says it's making some of
the more advanced features of its Netfinity servers "Linux aware,"
such as supporting the ability to hot swap drives and peripheral
cards. - Paul McDougall
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