123 School Work

Unix and Linux

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  This factsheet looks at some computers and operating systems, other than Windows-based PCs that are available on the market. The Technology Information Service has a series of factsheets introducing computers in general and discussing Windows based computers in more detail, including the access technology available for them. The Personal Computers factsheet explains many of the terms often used relating to computers and the Advice on Buying Equipment factsheet is useful if you are buying a computer and access technology for the first time.
  
  This factsheet includes:
  
       Advice on Buying Equipment
       Unix and the X Window System
       Linux
       Other Sources of Information
       Supplier Information
  
  Factsheet Expiry Date: March 2004
  
  Advice on Buying Equipment
  
  Introduction
  
  Mainstream business use of computers currently tends to revolve around Windows based computers. There are however, a lot of other types of computers around. Educational establishments often have a wide variety of different machines as do home computer users, and there are many Unix machines in the business world. Linux is an operating system, which can be installed on any IBM compatible personal computer as an alternative to the Microsoft Windows operating system.
  
  Before buying a particular make of machine it is worth considering carefully what programs you will be able to get to run on that particular machine, including the access technology software, and what you hope to be able to do with it.
  
  Certain machines have developed along specific routes, usually encouraged by the manufacturer, and this is clearly reflected in the programs available for particular machines - games for example. It is important to look at various computer magazines in newsagents to get an idea of the different programs available for the different makes of computer...