Solaris 9 for x86 systems
 

I would like to get Solaris for use at home, since I may be getting a job that would likely require me to run Solaris on a Sun server (possibly a V880). I have no experience with UNIX and would like to just set up something to get my feet wet. My only real concern is hardware compatibility. I will likely be installing Solaris on a Dell GX1 with a 500 MHz PIII, everything pretty much stock from Dell, no extra cards added. Does anyone know if it will work out well?

You can check out the Hardware Compatibility Lists that are published on Sun's website. That should be a good start.

Running Solaris x86 should give you general feel for the operating system. Please be aware that it probably won't help you very much in dealing with the hardware specifics.

I checked the HCL on Sun's site, and it is substantially lacking

It seems the HCL for 9 does not have as many devices as for 8. Check the list for 8. It lists more devices.

I heard that Solaris 8 for i386 is free while 9 costs. I have been unable to find the FTP address.

Nope they both cost. not much really just 20 dollars USD.

Once you cough up the bucks Sun will allow you to download the ISO's from thier website.

Note: if you own a sun box capable of running solaris 9 ie. (sparc 10,20. ultra 1,5,10,30,60...etc) Then yes it is a free download at this time.

I personaly have an Ultra1 with 200mbs of ram to run Solaris 9 and would recomend that anyone looking to learn Solaris. to try and pickup one. I picked up mine for less then 130CDN dollars.

Regards