Why NOT 64bit Linux!
 

Hi,

I couldn't stand to see how my computer is wasted with Linux. I was so exited to use my new 64 bit processor but so dissapopointed afterwards to see that it is that much supported yet.

First I had hard time with installing Java plugin to firefox, then I learned that SUN Java doesn't have a web plugin yet for 64bit. So I installed Blackdown java which doesn't work very good and sometimes crashes the browser.

Then I was so dissappointed again when I couldn't find Flash and Shockwave plugins (glflash crashes all the time.)

I can't even browse the net at this point and I am so pissed off of course. And finally I couldn't run Azureus, I tried almost everything I found on the net but non worked for me.

My Linux crashes when I turn on the TV for a while.

I couldn't solve the problem with Amarok that neither Xine nor gstreamer engines work. They both crash very nicely when chosen.

No need to say that I had to spend hours to install drivers for my ATI cards because 64bit support was not yet very complete and need to install some 32 bit packages.

So finally I gave up using Mandriva Linux 2006 64bit for a while.

I plan to go with Windows or a 32bit Linux for a while and hope that meanwhile stable web plugins and Java support will be released for 64bit.

And personally as an end user who is not very much eager to waste days with configurations and setting issues I suggest those who plan to switch a 64bit Linux to wait abit longer until they make sure that their needs will be satisfied with their OS.

Regards,

-Baran

What are you using your computer for that a 64bit processor would benefit you? There are very few 64bit distros who's main focus in Stability. I wouldn't consider stability a focus of mandrake in their 32bit branch, so their 64bit won't be for a while.

As for software, if the rpm isn't available or stable, then good old gcc is always available to compile it.

I am using Suse 10.0 64 bit without problems.